It’s the beginning of another year, and for those of us with ageing loved ones or loved ones living with a disability, it can be a time when tough decisions need to be considered. Right at Home Australia, a premiere home care provider, is experienced in easing these conversations and paving the way for improving the quality of life and to maintain independence for your loved ones.

Over the holiday period, you may have connected after a period of not seeing one another and noticed that your father, mother, or great aunt was perhaps not quite themself. They may have seemed forgetful, lost, or had difficulty moving from one place to another.

Concern about a loved one’s daily safety and comfort can be overwhelming. Conflicts within the family and communication gaps with healthcare providers can lead to frustration and stress. So how do you initiate an effective conversation about their health?

We are here to help.

RightCoversations™ is a practical guide for families offering realistic tips for effective communication about family caregiving.

Tip 1: Gather Accurate, Relevant Information

Tip 2: Determine the Level of Concern Warranted

Tip 3: Review the Facts and Avoid Personal Biases

Tip 4: Where Possible Involve Siblings

Tip 5: Plan the Conversation

Tip 6: Create a Positive Conversation. 

Tip 7: Be Aware of Differences in Communication Styles

Tip 8: Understand Why Your Loved One May Withhold Information

Tip 9: Do Not Make Your Loved One Feel Ambushed

Tip 10: What to Do if Your Loved One Says “No”

Communication is one of the most important elements in caring for an elderly or disabled family member. If you begin with clear expectations and keep the lines of communication open, your chances for a successful ongoing relationship are greatly improved. Remember, caring for your loved ones means having ongoing, purposeful conversations.

If you would like to learn more about our RightConversations™ Guide and how we can help you and your family, please don’t hesitate to get in touch today.

Keep up to date with COVID 19 information on the following links:

Australian Government Department of Health

Victorian Health and Human Services

NSW Health

Queensland Health

ACT Health

WA Department of Health

Tasmanian Department of Health

Northern Territory Department of Health

SA Health

Founded in 1995, Right at Home offers in-home companionship and personal care, and assistance to seniors (elderly and aged care), and any adult who needs our care at home including adults living with a disability who want to continue to live independently or age in their home. Right at Home is your local expert for issues related to caring for your loved ones and is dedicated to keeping you informed about home care. With no admin or subscription fees Right at Home allows you to get more care from your package or budget.

Right at Home is a 'My Aged Care' government approved, home care provider for levels 1 – 4 and offers flexible in-home care services such as nursing care, after hospital care, post-operative care, respite care, dementia and Alzheimer's care. Right at Home also offers assistance with daily living and personal care such as grooming, hygiene, transport, shopping, meal prep, domestic services and social support, so your loved one can enjoy a more independent, vibrant life. Our nurses and caregivers are screened, highly trained, and insured prior to entering your home so you can trust us with the caregiving while you focus on your loved one.

To find out more, please give us a call on 1300 363 802 or visit our website.

Right at Home Offices in Australia: Sydney Lower North Shore; Sydney Upper North Shore; Sydney Central and Eastern Suburbs; Sydney Northern Beaches; Sydney North West; Sydney The Hills; Padstow St George; Macarthur Penrith; Newcastle; Hunter & Port Stephens; Southern NSW; Toowoomba- Darling Downs; Sunshine Coast and Gympie; Mackay; Central Queensland; Townsville; Far North Queensland; Gold Coast South; Gold Coast North; Northern Rivers; Brisbane Bayside; Brisbane South; Brisbane North; Brisbane West; Perth Midland; Perth Northern Suburbs; Perth West Coast: Kalgoorlie Wheatbelt; Moreton Bay Region; Sydney Inner West; Sydney Ryde; Greater Logan