Elder Mediation
Elder Mediation is a specialized form of mediation whereby a professionally trained Elder Mediator utilizes a "mediation process model" to assist family members and other interested parties in discussions about the issues of changes and stresses that are often faced by older persons. Elder Mediation promotes communication and the involvement of family members and others who wish to help.
Elder Mediation permits seniors to participate and have a voice in the decisions and the process that affects their future years and to help families to talk frankly about the difficult circumstances which need to be faced and resolved. An Elder Mediator is there to help with these difficult conversations so that results could be achieved in resolving these disputes. Any agreement which the parties reach must benefit the senior(s) by respecting their rights and safety.
Examples of the issues that can be addressed include, but not limited to:
Elder Mediation permits seniors to participate and have a voice in the decisions and the process that affects their future years and to help families to talk frankly about the difficult circumstances which need to be faced and resolved. An Elder Mediator is there to help with these difficult conversations so that results could be achieved in resolving these disputes. Any agreement which the parties reach must benefit the senior(s) by respecting their rights and safety.
Examples of the issues that can be addressed include, but not limited to:
- Loss of independence (driving and mobility)
- Housing and living arrangements
- Care for the caregiver
- Health care - at home, in the community, in the hospital
- Medical decisions
- Retirement and long-term care home decisions
- Abuse and neglect
- Relationships: inter-generational relationships, new marriages and step-family situations
- Financial concerns and planning
- Estate planning
- Family business and other family assets
- Guardianship
- End of life decisions: power of attorney, living wills, decision making
- Progressive dementia and other memory and cognitive impairments
- Environment and safety