We all had squabbles with our siblings when we were kids – but we’re adults now and we’ve outgrown all that, right? Unfortunately, when mom or dad receives a dementia diagnosis, differing opinions – not to mention a whirlwind of emotions – can cause new conflicts to surface. Here’s some advice on how to get your family on the same page, for the sake of your parent and each other.

Understanding The Roots of Family Conflicts

A parent’s dementia diagnosis brings up a whole new set of emotional and practical issues for families to address. What if one of you promised you’d never place your parent in a “home”? That sibling may struggle with the role-reversal in decision-making and may not be prepared to rethink that vow, even though it is in the best interest of your parent.

Siblings who live in different states may disagree over where their parent should move to receive needed care. Like many situations in life, the cost of memory care can be a source of conflict. And the stress that comes with balancing one’s own life and managing a parent’s care is enough to make anyone disagreeable.

Recognizing these sources of conflict can help address them more effectively and keep the focus on your loved one’s well-being.

Bringing Your Family Together As A Team

Once you are able to define the conflict, you can use the following tips to work toward a solution:

• Set Clear Expectations: Define roles and responsibilities early on. Discuss questions such as who will handle which aspects of care and how updates will be communicated. Clear expectations can help prevent misunderstandings.

• Hold Regular Family Meetings: Schedule meetings to review care needs, discuss coping strategies, and update plans. Keeping everyone informed and involved can help reduce conflict.

• Communicate Openly: Establish a routine for frequent, honest communication. Whether it’s daily check-ins or weekly updates, open dialogue helps prevent issues from escalating.

• Educate Everyone: Ensure all family members understand dementia. Share resources, attend educational sessions, and discuss any concerns. Knowledge helps everyone make informed decisions.

• Be Flexible: Dementia care needs will change over time. Be ready to adapt your plans and routines as needed. A positive attitude towards change can reduce stress for both caregivers and your loved one.

• Focus on Shared Goals: Keep discussions centered on providing the best care for your loved one. Emphasize teamwork and the importance of achieving the best possible quality of life.

• Address Children’s Needs: If there are kids in the family, explain the situation in age-appropriate ways. Help them stay connected with their loved one through simple, familiar interactions.

• Seek Outside Support: If conflicts persist, consider involving a mediator or seeking advice from organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association. An external perspective can often help resolve disagreements and unite the family.

Navigating dementia care as a family isn’t easy, but with clear communication, education, and support, you can work together to provide the best care for your loved one.

At Artis Senior Living, we’re here to support your family every step of the way. Our compassionate staff and specialized programs are designed to help both residents and families thrive. Ready to see how we can help? Find an Artis community near you and schedule a tour to take the first step towards peace of mind.

From Chaos to Consensus: How to Unite Your Family After a Dementia Diagnosis