Helping someone realize they are at risk

Posted on

Jan 24, 2015

Book/Edition

Texas - Dallas, Collin, SE Denton & Rockwall Counties

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Helping someone realize they are at risk You've probably heard someone say I'm worried that my mom will fall and no one will be there or my mom got lost while walking her dog or my client forgot to take their medication or my client over dosed on her medication because she could not remember if she had taken it. Don't you wish there was something you could do for them? The following approach can be used to assist your discussion with them in any situation including fall prevention, diabetes, medication errors, safe driving, memory issues etc. Remember, this is about them; so include their thoughts on the subject. The first question is to ask is if they think they are at risk? If they flat out say no, its time to move to another subject and approach the topic again at a later time you do not want them to become entrenched in their thinking and you want the opportunity for a positive discussion. The next time you ask the question, bring up a specific event to engage their thoughts and help them to identify things they can do to help themselves to remain safe. They forget their medicine or take too many sometimes. Remind them that not taking their medicine makes them feel worst or causes them more pain and taking too much medicine caused them to go to the hospital. Solutions may include putting a note on the fridge to remind them when its time to take their medicine and helping them to prepare their medication for the week. They have fallen before and are at a risk for falls. Ask them if they have fallen or almost fallen in the past. Ask them if no one was there would they be able to get up on their own. Solutions include identifying ways to prevent them from falling and ways to call for help. While they are thinking about risks, provide more information to help them face their illness or problem. Its important to listen. The more they feel they are in control and making the decision, the more likely they will follow through with it. Get a professional involved who can offer additional information. Most importantly, respond positively and support them in their decisions so they continue to communicate with you. With an open line of communication, you can help them to identify and prevent risks. Editors Note: This article was submitted by Bonnie Resnick-Destruel with Family Care Services, Inc. Contact Bonnie at 972-668-8242 or bonnie@familycaresrv.com

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