Questions to Ask an Elder Care Mediator
Caregivers often find it challenging to balance their work, home, and caregiving responsibilities--and that's before you consider any family drama or sibling rivalry! Has your father refused to admit that he needs constant care? Is your older sister arguing that she should have the financial power of attorney as well as the medical, since your parents live with her family? Does your mom insist that she'll just live with your little brother, who she still sees as a wunderkind--and who has yet to tell her that he's been crashing in your basement for the past two years? Sometimes families need the perspective of an objective person: an eldercare mediator. AARP lists a few questions you should ask when interviewing prospective mediators.
1. What's your background?
Although eldercare mediators do not need to have industry-wide requirements or standards, most have backgrounds in fields like psychology, law, counseling, or social work. AARP suggests that you look for mediators who have been trained in conflict resolution. Ask how long they have been mediating professionally, too.
2. What's your approach to mediation?
You need to know what you should expect. Will you hold one long session or several short sessions? Will you contact us or meet with us individually before the session? What is your game plan for each session?
3. Will our discussions be confidential?
You must confirm that they will keep your information private. You must do this in order to speak freely. Depending on the state, the mediator might be prohibited by law from discussing the mediation, but some states will allow a mediator to be subpoenaed for subsequent judicial proceedings.
4. What's your fee?
Does the mediator charge by the hour or by the session? Is it a flat rate? A family that is particularly dysfunctional might need more sessions than originally anticipated, so ask if the mediator allows extensions or extra sessions.
AARP explains more about mediation and mediators. This professional can help you and your family deal with practical matters (and even emotional fallout) stemming from caregiving. Eldercare mediators are an excellent option for families on the verge of implosion, and for families that just need a little advice!
For more information, visit AARP here: https://ow.ly/xEpo30kCRbZ
?Have you ever used a professional mediator? Share your stories in the comments!