How Can a Mediator Help Families Make Decisions About Elder Care?
May 3, 2023

As our loved ones age, the decision to move them into an assisted living facility or nursing home can be a difficult and emotionally charged one for families. This is especially true in Indiana, where the population of seniors is projected to increase dramatically over the next few decades. It is estimated that by 2050, nearly one in four Hoosiers will be over the age of 65, making it even more important for families to have a clear plan for their elder care. In this context, a mediator can be an invaluable resource in helping families navigate this complex and sensitive process.


First and foremost, a mediator can help family members communicate effectively and respectfully with each other. Often, family members may have differing opinions about what is best for their loved one, and emotions can run high. A mediator can create a safe space for family members to voice their concerns and feelings, and ensure that each person's perspective is heard and understood. This can be especially important if family members live far away from each other, or have difficulty communicating due to past conflicts or strained relationships.


Second, a mediator can help family members identify their shared interests and priorities. While family members may disagree on certain aspects of elder care, such as where their loved one should live or what medical treatments they should receive, there are likely areas where they can find common ground. For example, all family members may agree that their loved one should be in a safe and comfortable environment, or that they should have access to high-quality medical care. By focusing on these shared interests, a mediator can help family members work together toward a solution that benefits everyone.


Third, a mediator can provide information and resources that can help inform the decision-making process. Mediators are trained to be knowledgeable about a wide range of elder care options, including assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and home care services. They can help family members understand the pros and cons of each option, and provide guidance on what factors to consider when making a decision. This can be especially helpful for family members who may not be familiar with the elder care landscape in Indiana.


Fourth, a mediator can help family members develop a concrete plan for elder care. Once family members have identified their shared interests and priorities, a mediator can help them create a plan that takes those factors into account. This might involve identifying specific assisted living facilities or home care providers that meet the family's needs, or outlining a care schedule that ensures that the loved one's medical and personal needs are being met. By developing a plan together, family members can feel more confident that they are making the best decision for their loved one.


Finally, a mediator can help family members navigate any legal or financial issues that may arise in the course of the decision-making process. For example, they can provide guidance on how to navigate Medicare or Medicaid, or help family members understand the legal requirements for power of attorney or guardianship. This can be especially important if family members are unfamiliar with these processes, or if there are disagreements about how to handle legal or financial matters.


In conclusion, the decision to move a loved one into assisted living or nursing care can be one of the most difficult decisions a family can make. However, by working with a mediator, families in Indiana can find a way to navigate this complex process with compassion and care. Mediators can provide a safe and supportive environment for family members to communicate, identify shared interests and priorities, access information and resources, develop a concrete plan, and navigate any legal or financial issues that may arise. By working together, families can ensure that their loved one receives the best possible care and support in their golden years.


This blog post was written by Chelle Hendershot at Hope For Our Future, LLC. This blog is not intended to be legal advice or a solicitation for services. It is for educational and marketing purposes only.


Copyright © 2023 Hope For Our Future, LLC. All rights reserved. This blog post may be shared, copied, and distributed in its entirety for non-commercial purposes, provided that proper attribution is given, and no modifications are made to the original work.

Related Post

The Power of Play: How Playtime Builds Brains and Relationships

September 12, 2025
When life gets busy, it’s easy to see playtime as “extra” or something to squeeze in after chores and schedules are done. But for children, play isn’t just fun—it’s essential. Through play, kids learn about the world, practice problem-solving, and develop the emotional and social skills they’ll use for the rest of their lives. And here’s the bonus: play isn’t only good for kids—it’s also one of the best ways to strengthen your parent-child bond. Why Play Matters for Brain Development Builds Creativity and Imagination – Pretend play lets children try out roles, test boundaries, and dream big. Strengthens Problem-Solving Skills – Whether it’s stacking blocks or inventing a new game, play challenges children to experiment, make mistakes, and try again. Supports Emotional Growth – Play gives kids safe ways to process feelings. A child playing “house” or acting out a story with dolls is working through emotions they may not yet have words for. Boosts Brain Connections – Neuroscience shows that play helps build neural pathways that support memory, language, and self-regulation. Types of Play that Make a Difference Unstructured Play – Free time with toys, art supplies, or outside play where kids lead the activity. Structured Play – Games with rules (like board games, sports, or card games) teach fairness, patience, and teamwork. Physical Play – Running, climbing, or playing tag strengthens motor skills and reduces stress. Creative Play – Drawing, building, or storytelling sparks imagination and self-expression. Playtime and Relationships Children often experience love through quality time and attention. Playing together says, “I enjoy being with you.” When parents get down on the floor for pretend play, join a game of catch, or take time to listen to a child’s invented story, it sends a powerful message of connection. For families navigating divorce or co-parenting, play can also ease transitions between homes. Familiar games and traditions give children a sense of stability and comfort. Making Room for Play Set aside even 15 minutes of focused playtime each day. Let your child lead—follow their rules in pretend play. Put away devices during playtime to give full attention. Mix indoor and outdoor activities to keep it fresh. Final Thoughts Play is more than entertainment—it’s a tool for learning, bonding, and growing. By making play a priority, parents can support healthy brain development and build stronger, more joyful connections with their children. This post was written by Chelle Hendershot, who is a dedicated Mediator, Guardian ad Litem, and Parenting Coordinator at Hope For Our Future, LLC, with a passion for helping individuals and families navigate through life's most challenging moments. This post is not intended to be legal advice and is for marketing purposes only.

What Kids Wish Their Parents Knew During Divorce

September 8, 2025
Divorce is one of the hardest transitions a family can face. While parents may be focused on court orders, schedules, and finances, children are often quietly trying to make sense of the changes in their world. Kids don’t always have the words to explain what they’re feeling, but if they could speak openly, here are some of the things many would want their parents to know.  1. “It’s not my fault.” One of the biggest fears children carry during divorce is that somehow they caused it. Even if you think it’s obvious, kids may believe that their behavior, grades, or even something they said led to the separation. They need to hear, often and clearly, that the divorce is not their fault. 2. “Please don’t make me choose.” Children love both parents, and being asked to take sides—or even feeling subtle pressure—can be heartbreaking. When parents use kids as messengers or speak badly about the other parent, it puts children in an impossible position. What they want most is to feel free to love both parents without guilt. 3. “I need to know what’s going to happen.” Uncertainty is scary. Kids want to know where they’ll live, what their routine will look like, and when they’ll see each parent. Predictability provides comfort. Even if you don’t have all the answers, reassuring them that you’ll figure things out and keep them informed helps reduce their anxiety. 4. “I still need to be a kid.” Divorce can sometimes make kids feel like they have to grow up faster. They may try to comfort you, take care of younger siblings, or take on adult responsibilities. But children need time to play, have fun, and just be kids. They’re asking for the space to do that without the weight of adult problems. 5. “I’m watching how you handle this.” Children are always learning from their parents—even in times of stress. They notice how you communicate, solve problems, and manage your emotions. Showing respect, even in tough moments, models resilience and healthy coping skills that your children will carry into their own relationships one day. Final Thoughts During divorce, children need reassurance, stability, and love more than ever. While parents may not be able to shield them from every difficulty, listening to what kids need can make all the difference. By putting their well-being first and keeping communication open, you can help them feel safe, supported, and loved through one of life’s hardest transitions. This post was written by Chelle Hendershot, who is a dedicated Mediator, Guardian ad Litem, and Parenting Coordinator at Hope For Our Future, LLC, with a passion for helping individuals and families navigate through life's most challenging moments. This post is not intended to be legal advice and is for marketing purposes only.