Some specific tips for communicating with family are:
- Be a good listener. Remember, listening is the most important aspect of communication.
- Talk openly about your fears, worries and needs. This will invite frank and meaningful dialogue. Other family members may feel comfortable sharing as a result.
- Broach difficult subjects. Discuss topics such as finances, insurance, wills and advance directives. (Advance directives clarify what the loved one wants done in case of a medical emergency.) These can be difficult and delicate subjects, but preparing for the future can help relieve stress. Chances are, your loved one is also concerned about these issues.
- Recognize what everyone is feeling. Caregiving often arises after a medical crisis, particularly with heart disease and stroke. The entire family may be left reeling. Try to be patient. A family member who has never adapted well to a crisis likely won’t be very good at dealing with this either. Give everyone time to adjust in his or her own way.