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. Author manuscript; available in PMC: 2013 Nov 4.
Published in final edited form as: JAMA. 2011 Aug 17;306(7):10.1001/jama.2011.1163. doi: 10.1001/jama.2011.1163

Table 5.

Words to Say when there is resistance about Changing Setting of Care45

Actions Words to Say
Ask open questions What are your concerns about making a move?
Tell me what you are worried about when you think about moving.
Provide affirmation (point out strengths and build rapport) So you are taking control of your life by taking stock and thinking about the future.
Engage in reflective listening (demonstrate respect and allow for creative problem- solving) You see the benefit of moving but are afraid of losing your independence.
Summarize (maintain direction and momentum towards consideration of a change) “Let me stop and summarize what we’ve just talked about. You’re not sure and only agreed because your daughter insisted on it. At the same time, you’ve had some nagging thoughts of your own about what’s been happening, including how safe it is to live by yourself now that you have fallen twice. You want to remain in control and worry that with a move you will lose your independence. Did I miss anything?”