WHITE Coat Syndrome usually means that you get anxious going to the doctor. What I’ve noticed, however, is a different type of White Coat Syndrome when family members are caring for their aged loved ones.
They listen to others rather than listening to us!
Now this isn’t a bad thing, but it really is frustrating.
Instead of getting upset and feeling resentful, use it to your advantage.
Take the angst out of caring and go straight to the professionals for help. Don’t spend time and energy (and ultimately your relationship) trying to “get through” to your aged loved ones.
You know them, and you know the topics you can talk about with them. Don’t put yourself through the pain and emotional turmoil when there are professionals that can help you.
Finding the right care options – they might think you are “palming off” their care by providing options that suit you. However, if you engage an aged care consultant, they will provide independent advice for your aged loved one through the options available and that would suit their circumstances.
Getting the legals sorted. When children raise the will, power of attorney and enduring guardianship, they can think the children are after their money. A lawyer explaining why estate planning is important means they have an independent advocate.
Using mobility assisting equipment. Get an Occupational Therapist to provide an assessment of their home and how mobile they are.
It is hurtful when they don’t listen to you! However, see it for what it is – you used to go to them for advice and information and now when the roles are reversed. It is hard for them. They are losing so much – health, mobility, ability to care for themselves – they just want to have some control in their lives.
For more information Contact me at agedcarewithease@gmail.com