One of the things I love about my job is the incredible conversations we have with our clients. Conversations where we learn as well as coach and coax.
One such recent conversation was with Graham, a super bright and articulate semi-retired solicitor in his early 70s. We were discussing health in Later Life and his experience of seeing an elderly parent suffer from dementia, spending their latter years in a nursing home unable to communicate or recognise their family.
Giving permission
Graham was adamant that he wanted to have fearless conversations now, whilst entirely compos mentis, with his adult children to tell them that if he were to suffer from dementia, or any other illness that took away his memory or ability to function, that he would wish to be in a comfortable but basic nursing home and for them to not feel the need to visit him if he was unable recognise them. Additionally, he would wish them to live their lives with no feelings of guilt, happy in the knowledge that this was his wish. In his words, “giving them permission” to get on with their lives safe in the knowledge that he had had a happy, healthy and rewarding life and that this was his wish.
If we can help you and your family, or friends, uncover and approach these difficult and emotive issues please do get in touch with me or any of the Paradigm Norton advice team on 020 7269 7960, after all, we are here to help.
What difficult conversations are you putting off?
You may not of course agree with Graham, nor wish the same from your family should you find yourself in such a situation. That’s not my point. My point and question is this; what difficult conversations are you putting off having with your family and friends which may be hard to have now, but will create understanding and peace for all in the longer run?
