Discussing the need for long term care

An open and honest discussion can help secure the right kind of care at the right time. Here is some advice about how to get started.

If you need long-term care, you may find it hard to raise the topic with others because it seems like a blow to your self-esteem -- a subject that means you are really "old." You may also be reluctant to begin the process of giving up some of your independence or surrendering full control over your life. And when you know you will need the help of your family, you may hesitate to raise the subject because you don't want to become a burden.

On the other hand, if you believe that someone else -- a family member or other loved one -- is in need of care, you may be reluctant to bring up the subject because it may seem like a challenge or an insult. And within the family there may be anxiety, guilt and wide differences of opinion about what care is needed and who should provide it. The first step in getting necessary care is to overcome this reluctance to talk about it.