5 Tips for Dealing with an Uncooperative Loved One

By Geralyn DiGiovanni, Manager, Client Services | May 6, 2016 |

Elderly Care in Ossining NY

Your loved one might be uncooperative in a wide range of ways, but often they make life more difficult for both of you and might even be harmful for him. Whether it’s avoiding bathing or becoming verbally aggressive, there are things you can do to get through uncooperative behavior from your loved one.

Remember It’s Not Personal

When you’re in the moment with your elderly loved one, it’s really difficult to remind yourself that the behavior you’re experiencing isn’t personal. It sure feels personal, and your loved one isn’t trying to meet you even halfway. Try to remind yourself that the behavior is just a symptom of something else that’s going on.

Avoid Arguing

Arguing with your loved one won’t ever produce the results that you want. No matter how reasonable your argument is or how solid the facts you present are, your argument will fall on deaf ears and will simply make the situation worse. It’s not important who is right and who is wrong. What matters is figuring out what your loved one needs so that you can help him get those needs met.

Understand Your Loved One May Not Be Able to Help the Behavior

It’s almost always the case that your loved one isn’t in total control of the behavior that you’re experiencing. He’s acting out because he has unmet needs and he’s not been able to meet them in any other way. When you can focus on that fact, it’s easier to take yourself out of the equation and try to solve the problem.

Be Compassionate and Patient

Let your loved one know by your tone of voice, gentle hands, and soothing words that you love him and that you want to help him. As difficult as this situation is for you, it’s just as difficult, if not more so, for him. He’s trying to communicate with you and he’s not able to make himself understood.

Get a Medical Opinion

If you’re not able to figure out on your own what’s causing your loved one’s behavior, you need to talk to his doctor about determining if there’s an underlying medical cause. Once you have a handle on any medical problems, you can work toward solving them.

Your loved one’s elderly care providers can help you to weather this time with your loved one. They have experience with these sorts of issues and can offer you invaluable advice.

If you or an aging loved one are looking for Elderly Care in Ossining, NY, call the friendly staff at The Perfect Home Care at (855) 855-5728. Call today!

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Geralyn DiGiovanni, Manager, Client Services

Manager, Client Services at The Perfect Home Care

Geralyn DiGiovanni has been marketing director of The Perfect Home Care since July, 2013. She’s responsible for promoting the agency by identifying and reaching out to market segments that align with the services offered by The Perfect Home Care. Among others, she works closely with geriatric care managers, elder care attorneys, and assisted living facilities. Her industry-specific experience includes multiple stints as a companion aide for seniors. She also has extensive experience in the publishing industry, where she worked as an account manager. “I love this industry and am passionate about working with seniors,” she says.

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