Elder Mediation

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Elder mediation aims to resolve conflict between parties which can arise between elderly people, their family, their carers and other significant parties in the process of caring for an elderly person. Elder mediation is helpful in addressing a wide range of issues, which may include health and medical care, progressive dementias, caregiving, financial matters, guardianship, housing, living arrangements, intergenerational relationships, new marriages, religious and cultural issues, gender and LGBTIQA+ issues, Indigenous issues, family business matters, driving concerns, abuse, safety, self-neglect, legal matters, and end-of-life planning.

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At Kannen Mediation we do this with a focus on human rights principles such as participation, accountability, equality and empowerment. We conduct elder mediation with the primary goal of ensuring that the elderly person concerned is respected and safe. This includes ensuring that the elderly person’s legal rights are protected throughout the mediation process. We promote positive, respectful communication between all parties concerned.

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Key Aspects of Elder Mediation

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1. Voluntary and Cooperative Process: Elder mediation is a voluntary process with all parties giving their agreement to mediate. When you come to Kannen Mediation for elder mediation, discussions are facilitated to help the parties communicate respectfully. Kelly will assist the parties to identify mutual concerns, develop options, and empower them to arrive at their own decisions on how to resolve the issues or conflict.

2. Person-Centred Approach: Elder mediation should always be approached in a person-centred way for all participants. This ensures that the older person's voice is heard and respected, whether directly or indirectly, through a guardian for example.

3. Confidentiality: Discussions in elder mediation are strictly confidential and are held in a private and safe setting. The mediator will control the process, will not give advice, and will not make decisions. Agreements are reached by the participants and must be agreeable to all parties.

4. Involvement of Multiple Participants: Elder mediation can involve many participants, including older individuals, family members, friends, paid caregivers, hospital staff, nursing home representatives, doctors, social workers, advocates, and other professionals. At Kannen Mediation we take the time to conduct careful intake processes to ensure the right people attend the mediation which may take place over several meetings. This can be with a few parties at a time or all parties together where appropriate.

5. Screening for Abuse and Neglect: At Kannen Mediation elder mediation includes initial and ongoing screening to identify any suspicions of elder abuse or neglect that may have been previously unrecognised. Where any abuse or neglect is suspected it can be identified and addressed, and strategies can be implemented to prevent future abuse or neglect.

 

Benefits of Elder Mediation

 

When run properly, Elder Mediation can enhance communications between parties by promoting a positive and respectful engagement which can help parties to resolve conflicts and address issues in a constructive manner. It can also help to encourage better communication between parties moving forward. Coming to mutually acceptable agreements at mediation can reduce the potential for ongoing conflict and can help to improve relationships.

 

At Kannen Mediation we promote empowerment for older individuals by ensuring they are heard and respected. This allows them to participate in the decision-making process. We also ensure their safety by addressing any issues of abuse or neglect which will enhance the overall well-being of the older individual and offer their families peace of mind.

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Elder mediation can be a valuable tool for resolving conflicts and addressing issues affecting older adults and their families. By promoting respectful communication, empowering older individuals, and ensuring their safety and well-being, elder mediation contributes to healthier and more harmonious relationships.