Facing an Obstinate Parent Head On Without Causing Fights

Ask any family caregiver what it’s like each day and you’ll probably hear words like rewarding but exhausting. Caring for an aging parent is hard emotionally and physically. When that parent is demanding, it’s even harder.

The more demanding your parent is, the more likely you are to want to push back. Doing so can cause some fights that are best avoided. Doing so takes patience, but these caregiving tips will help.

Turn Things Around and Take the Blame

Home Care Little Falls, MN: Facing an Obstinate Parent Head On Without Causing Fights

Your dad wants to go out again. You’ve already taken him out three times this week. You’re sick of driving, but he’s being incredibly insistent. Instead of telling him no and pointing at his frequent trips out during the week, make it about yourself.

If you’re tempted to say, “You’ve already gone out four times this week…” say something like “I ran out of gas. My friend/partner is coming with gas in a little while. I can’t go anywhere until the gas tank has gas.” It’s your fault he can’t go out. He may not be happy, but he will get that there’s no room for debate.

Make It His Idea

One of the best skills to master is the art of making something your parent’s idea. Say that you want your mom to get a flu shot, but she’s pushing back saying she doesn’t need it. Don’t do anything else. Drop the discussion.

Later in the day or week, do a casual search of stories about people who had the flu and ended up dealing with severe health issues. If your mom has seen the John Wayne movie The Quiet Man, she may know actor Jack MacGowran. He passed away in his early-50s due to complications caused by the flu. You may find that is enough to get her to want the flu shot for prevention.

Know When to Back Down

There are some tasks you can’t let your mom or dad skip. If they’re being increasingly demanding about something that really isn’t necessary, back down and let them do things their way.

For example, you couldn’t let your dad skip his insulin injection without risking his health. If he’s demanding that he not take a shower today, you could let that slide for the day. If you can’t let him skip it again, try bribery. Tell him that if he gets showered and dressed you could go see a movie or go to the pub for a pint.

Sometimes, the best way to avoid fighting is by walking away. Let someone else handle your mom or dad’s care. Home care services help as often as is needed to help your parents age at home. Call a home care agency for prices.

If you or an aging loved-one are considering Home Care in Little Falls, MN please contact the caring staff at Alternative Senior Care today. Providing Home Care in Central Minnesota and Surrounding Communities. Call us Today (320) 352-3350.