Family guide · General information
Start with what has changed, not with taking over
A useful family conversation protects choice while making changes visible. Focus on specific tasks, recent events and what your parent wants to keep doing.
Start with context
Look for the pattern, not one isolated moment
“You need help” can feel broad and threatening. “I noticed the front steps are harder since hospital - what would make that trip easier?” gives everyone something concrete to discuss. Unless there is immediate danger, involve the older person in deciding what happens next.
- Holding furniture or walls more often
- Stopping usual walks, shopping or social outings
- New difficulty with stairs, showering or getting out of a chair
- Falls, near misses or unexplained bruises
- A partner or family carer doing much more than before
A practical response
Four steps to make the next action clearer
Describe one observable change
Use a recent example without labelling the person as unsafe or incapable. Ask how the task feels from their perspective.
Agree on the priority
The goal might be the garden, the bus stop, a shower, church or getting into a family car. Their priority helps shape useful support.
Choose the next conversation
Depending on the change, this may be a GP review, a physiotherapy assessment, an occupational therapy home review or a My Aged Care assessment.
Keep a simple record
Note falls, dizziness, medicine changes, hospital visits and functional changes. Specific dates help clinicians see the pattern.
At home
Make the routine easier to repeat
- Ask before moving belongings or adding equipment
- Check lighting and clutter on the most-used route
- Confirm the phone and emergency contacts are easy to reach
- Discuss who can attend appointments or receive updates with consent
Common questions
Can I arrange physiotherapy for my parent?
You can start an enquiry, but the older person’s consent and preferences should guide communication and care unless another lawful decision-making arrangement applies.
When should we contact My Aged Care?
If everyday tasks, mobility, care arrangements or safety needs have changed, My Aged Care can check eligibility and arrange an assessment for government-funded supports.
What if my parent refuses help?
Listen for the concern behind the refusal, keep the conversation specific and offer choices. If decision-making capacity or immediate safety is in question, seek professional advice.
Sources and further information
Reviewed 23 August 2026. This page provides general education and cannot assess an individual, diagnose a condition or replace advice from a treating health professional.