As an individual nears the end of life, tension can mount among family members due to difficult decisions which need to be made at a sensitive time when emotions are fragile. In some cases, emergencies require decisions to be made quickly, resulting in additional stress. Frustration and tension can build among family members and in some cases, conflict can even have an impact on the health of the elderly individual.
Frequent Sources of Conflict
- Unclear/non-existent end of life plans for elders
- Differences in values and beliefs about care needs and end of life matters
- How to make major decisions in an end of life context
- Different coping styles
- Roles and responsibilities
- Historical issues which surface during this stressful time
Conflict Mitigation Strategies
- Where possible, start conversations about end-of-life care early with your aging loved one
- Prioritize their needs when making decisions
- Communicate with family members regularly to ensure everyone has current information and any sources of disagreement can be discussed and resolved before they escalate
Additional Information
- ADRIA Directory – search for family practitioners who specialize in Eldercare by choosing “Family/Eldercare/Parent & Teen” in the “Sectors of Practice” dropdown menu
- 211 Alberta for eldercare resources in your location
