Family Preparation? You Mean the Family Has to Adjust Too!

Family Preparation may seem unnecessary, but the family has to realize and accept the changes and transitions that their loved one is about to make. The family must realize that the caregiver, if not already a member of the family, must somewhat become a member. They are there to assist and are not household servants. As health conditions change, the family must adapt, and be willing to assist as much as possible, if only in cooperation and possible limited access. Visits are important for the morale of everyone.

Family members should not try to give orders to the caregiver for care regimen, unless they are prepared to take over the responsibility of the daily care should the need arise. Family members should remember that most patients are excellent actors and actresses, can can appear better or worse than their actual condition, depending on what they want believed. Watch for game-playing of family against caregiver. It Happens!

The Caregiven, family and Caregiver should sit down and discuss the conditions, how things are to be handled, and the wishes for health care and end of life decisions. The Care Management Team should follow those wishes if possible whether they agree with them or not.