Family Mediation: A Solution for Caring for Elderly Parents at Home

As time passed, the Curry family faced a difficult decision regarding the care of their aging parents. William Curry, their father, was struggling with dementia, while Melissa, their mother, was determined to continue caring for him at home despite her own failing health. The adult children found a memory care facility nearby, but Melissa was unwilling to consider the option, creating a challenging situation for the family.

A Mother's Determination

Despite the family's increasing concerns, Melissa remained resolute in caring for her husband at home, and her own memory was also starting to fail. The situation led to concerns about medication management and the safety of both parents, especially when left alone for long periods.

Seeking a Resolution

Faced with an impasse, the family sought outside help and turned to Elder Decisions, a company specializing in elder adult family mediation. The company's principal, Crystal Thorpe, and co-mediator Rikk Larsen, conducted interviews with the family before organizing a mediation session.

The Role of Mediation

During the mediation session, the family members, along with their parents, had the opportunity to discuss their concerns and perspectives, guided by the mediators. The process aimed to find a mutually agreeable solution that considered the well-being of both parents and addressed the family's worries.

After the mediation, the family was able to come to an agreement that considered the best interests of both parents, alleviating the tensions and concerns that had been plaguing them. The involvement of a neutral third party had proven instrumental in finding a way forward that all family members could support.