Harford The Caregiver's Toolkit

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16 T H E C A R E G I V E R ’ S T O O L
CHAPTER 1
EXPLORING CHALLENGES
It is important to work together to
meet the challenges of caregiving.
Call a “Family” meeting.
Tips for Successful Family Caregiving
SHARING THE CARE
TIPS for Successful Family Meetings:
☐ Come prepared. %ULQJ QRWHV RQ ZKDW \RX
would like to discuss; bring information about
programs and services you are considering.
☐ Respect feelings and wishes. Research
your loved one’s options. Can they afford
assisted living, a nursing home, etc.
☐ Gather facts. Research your loved
one’s options. Can they afford assisted
living, a nursing home, etc.
☐ Listen to others. Viewpoints may differ,
but consider everyone’s opinions and
don’t accuse or attack each other; use
“I” statements to express feelings.
☐ Divide responsibilities. Everyone
should have an assignment to
avoid feelings of resentment.
☐ Consider professional guidance.
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social worker can help run the meeting if
tensions are running high in the family.*
☐ Plan a follow-up meeting. Hold an additional
meeting two to three months following
the primary meeting, to evaluate the plan
and make any necessary changes.
☐ Take notes. To allow for clarity after the
meeting and to provide focus for future
action, have someone, preferably a family
member, take notes during the meetings.
Caregiving involves many challenging
decisions, from choosing an in-home aide
to finding a nursing home and resolving
personal affairs. Communication among family
members and concerned parties is the key
to providing the best care for your relative.
Caregiving is a massive responsibility and
therefore every possible resource should
be explored. Consider all avenues of
support including family, friends, churches,
neighbors and others in the community.
When planning a family meeting, include
relatives and other concerned parties.
It’s important to remember as you go
forward that you are planning the care of
an individual who has their own wants,
needs, and priorities. If you do not already
have a sense of their priorities, it may be
beneficial to discuss them with your loved
one in advance of having a family meeting.
Harford County Department
of Community Services
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* FREE Mediation Services are available for families and care providers who need help with decision-
making, conflicts or guardianship issues. Mediation is voluntary, confidential and the mediators are
neutral. For more information contact the Harford County Community Mediation Program at 410-
638-4807 or visit or