There’s no doubt about it–helping your loved ones can be difficult. You observe little things at first, such as forgetfulness.You let it go for a while, but soon you find yourself trying to evaluate a host of “little things” that collectively are adding up to the big question, “Is Mom or Dad mentally competent?” We have some answers and also some tough questions to help you evaluate your situation. Read on for more in-depth answers, and see our 3 Quick Questions to Ask (at the end) when you’re not sure what to do.
According to the Public Legal Education and Information Service of New Brunswick, “Mental competence is the key to rational decision making. Unfortunately, disease or injury can affect the mind making it hard for a person of any age to make sound decisions. Sometimes it may be impossible for the person to look after themselves or their affairs.”
There’s no easily, identifiable time and there is no easy formula as to when you should step in. But you and any other caretakers need to have a conversation with your parents focused on SAFETY. Ideally, their physician would partake in this conversation as well.
Be mindful that you distinguish between a true safety issue and a “matter of opinion.” If a physician or other professional deems your concerns as your opinion, they will not be willing to take the reins from Mom or Dad just yet. Simply disagreeing on what is best doesn’t mean your loved one isn’t capable of making his/her own decisions.
If it IS a safety issue, then it may be an issue of mental competence and it is time to step in.
If they’ll let you help make decisions, keep it simple and do it without getting involved in legalities. ALWAYS let them make as many decisions as possible, whether or not they are mentally competent. You can step in when necessary. No one likes to lose their freedom to choose, so even if they can’t drive anymore, be creative in the way you maintain their ability to have a say. “Do you want to go to the grocery store or the post office first?” “Would you like to stop for lunch before or after we pick up your prescription?” Choices like these can go a long way in helping them to feel valued and heard, at a time when they may otherwise be feeling a sense of loss.
Start small–unless it’s a safety issue–and always give choices.
Difficult behaviors. That’s what they’re typically called in the medical world. And refusing help usually falls into this category. Reading and learning as much as you can about how to deal with difficult behaviors will be of great value to you as you navigate this chapter of your parents’ care. Even training for dementia and Alzheimer’s can be extremely helpful (whether or not your loved one has these diagnoses) because it helps you understand more about the aging process, signs to look out for, and helpful things you can do.
If Mom and Dad don’t want help, you have a few options:
If your Mom or Dad doesn’t have the ability to make decisions but continues to do so, safety, quality of life, family relationships, and health can suffer quickly. The bottom line: Understand your options and make the best informed decision you can with the resources you have.
Need some help going through the process? Find all our contact information at our website: silverlininghealthcare.com.
Additional Resources:
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