Tips for Delivering Bad News to an Ageing Loved One

Generally, family members are reluctant to share any form of bad news with their ageing loved ones. When a senior family member loses a close friend or someone special to them, you will probably have to deliver the message to him/her. You will most likely find it hard to determine the best way to give the bad news to your loved one. Also, if your parent or loved one has been diagnosed with any long-term health issues, you may also have to hire a professional caregiver for him/her.
While it’s not in your hands to change the situation, it is up to you to make sure that he/she finds out the truth in the best possible way. Use these strategies to deliver the bad news to make sure their health or mental state isn’t compromised.

• Practicing your speech

You can try writing down what you have to say. Then, practice saying it in front of the mirror or even ask a friend for their honest opinion. To ease your nerves a bit, you can practice saying the bad news out loud several times. This will help you with a smoother delivery of the news.

• Consider their reaction

It is not necessary for your loved one to react to the bad news in an unpleasant manner. Some seniors have a practical personality and may ask you a lot of questions or seek out solutions immediately. Alternatively, a senior who is very emotional may have a strong tearful response to the news. Hence, it is important for you to consider your loved one’s reaction to the news and prepare accordingly.

• Stating the news clearly

Don’t use confusing phrases or words to make it harder for the senior to understand what is going on. Many ageing adults suffer from dementia so it may be more confusing for them to process the news. For example, telling your loved one that his/her partner has died will be more effective than telling them that their partner will not return home. Your intention may be to soften the blow but your approach may not work if you are dealing with someone who has cognitive disabilities.

• Choosing the right environment

Never deliver any kind of bad news to someone in a public place where showing their emotions may be embarrassing. It is important for you to also make sure that the senior is comfortable before you speak about it. The best time to talk to them is when they are well-fed and rested. Their home will be the best place to give them the news as they will be most comfortable there. However, if this isn’t possible, find another private space to speak to them.

• Following through

If giving the bad news falls on you, it means that you are the right person who can provide a sense of comfort to the one receiving the news. Hence, it is important for you to offer non-judgemental support when your loved one reacts. It doesn’t matter whether the senior starts brainstorming solutions to the problems or starts crying, all you need to do is provide a helping hand to them.
Relax and de-stress before breaking any kind of bad news to an ageing loved one. Putting your own mind at ease will help you deliver the unpleasant information more affectionately and effectively. Delivering any kind of bad news is never an easy task, but with a little love and compassion and these tips, it can be less complicated than you think.