Things to Consider When Planning a Family Meeting

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Family meetings can be a helpful tool in the care planning process. Before rallying the troops, here are some things to consider:

Include all core parties

Each family has its own dynamics and who is considered family can vary. Whether it’s a spouse, child, sibling, religious member, neighbor or friend - anyone who will be involved in the caregiving or decision-making should be invited. Some find it helpful to have the first meeting without the loved one involved in case people want to bring up issues that may be painful or confusing for that person to hear. After that, be sure to include that family member to ensure their preferences are honored.

Gather and share information

From medical conditions to finances to power of attorney, make sure everyone has a clear understanding of the loved one’s current situation.

Find the right gathering spot

Privacy is key so a public space may not be the best venue. For family members who live far away, include them via video chat or speakerphone.

Determine a cadence

Most likely all the topics that need to be discussed won’t be covered in one meeting. Set up a regular time to meet.

Establish goals

Ahead of each meeting, identify the main thing that needs to get resolved. Keeping the agenda short can help keep family members on task.

Focus on the present

When families get together, it’s not uncommon to bring up issues from the past. Don’t open up old wounds. Keep the attention on your loved one and their immediate and future needs.

Delegate tasks

During meetings, assign to-dos and agree on completion deadlines. Send out a recap after the meeting to ensure each person is following through on their commitments.

Enlist outside help

When emotions run high or there are too many different opinions, having an objective professional can help cool tensions and aid in the decision-making process. A social worker, geriatric care manager, mediator or even clergy can provide that necessary outside perspective.

If there are complex legal or financial matters, an elder law attorney may be good to consult.

For more in-depth information on family meetings, including sample agenda topics, check out this guide from the Family Caregiver Alliance.

In addition, if you think your loved one could benefit from in-home care, contact your local ComForCare Home Care to learn how we help people live their best lives possible.

ComForCare Home Care is a premier provider of in-home care, helping older adults live independently in their own homes and continue to do all the things they love. The home care company is committed to helping people live their best life possible and also offers special programs for people with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.

Portions of this article were originally featured on blog.comforcare.com.

ComForCare Home Care

Serving Fairfield & New Haven Counties

1700 Post Road, Suite E5

Fairfield, CT 06824

(203) 612-8966

ComForCare.com/FairfieldCT

[email protected]

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