Have you ever wondered what a senior’s perspective is on refusing help?
A recent study from the Journal of American Geriatrics Society has examined the reluctance of seniors to accept home-based support.
They found four key themes why the reluctance was held:
- Inability to do tasks: It is difficult for anyone to admit to themselves that are no longer fully able
- Burden on others: They do not want to hinder the life of someone else simply to help with a basic task
- Lack of trust: They don’t want to be exploited by caregivers
- Loss of control: It is hard to relinquish control to others
Three strategies were discussed to help overcome these issues:
- Re-frame Independence: “Being independent” is often connoted with being an adult. This should be re-framed that most humans are interdependent from birth.
- Contributing to others: Many seniors had themselves experienced the joy of helping others, and by accepting help they are contributing to the well-being of the helper.
- Overcoming the initial ask: It is difficult to ask for something the first time. Once asked once it becomes easier the next time.
(Source: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jgs.15526)
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