HealthBridge's In-Home Care Blog

How can I help you? 

Doesn't that seem like a simple, straightforward question?  Some might say it's the essential question we should use to begin every shift.  Sometimes you ask how you can help and your senior care client is prepared with a handful of suggestions for meaningful, helpful things.  

But, what happens if they don't know how you can help them?

There's an awfully big difference between "how can I help you," and "here's a few ideas of how I might be able to help you."

The difference is what we call Proactive Caregiving.  Most Dallas seniors have never had a senior care giver before.  They aren't sure what's appropriate or even possible.  Now, I'm not suggesting you take over - they're still the client.  But, part of helping them is showing them what's possible.  

So, here's your assignment:  Instead of asking "how can I help you" and hoping your client answers, come prepared with a few ideas.  When you arrive, remind them of things you've done with them before that they enjoyed.  Or, suggest some things that are typically part of their routine that you know they would like to get started.  

As Seth Godin says, "Far better to reach a level of confidence and skill that you can describe solutions rather than ask for tasks."

Special thanks to the insightful pen of Seth Godin for the inspiration for this article.  

The very first conversation about elder care is tough.  Download this free guide to make it easier. 

You'll get a presentation, a two worksheets all designed to make sure it goes smoothly for you.  And it's free!

Image credit:  chichacha