One lesson taught to every generation is “respecting senior parents,” even as we adopt this role. As Senior parents age, maintaining a healthy relationship can be challenged by changing dynamics and roles. Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and Grandparents’ Day are celebrated every year. Woe be the child who forgets; there is little forgiveness.
Respecting Senior Parents
Respect is defined as 1) to consider worthy of high regard, or 2) to refrain from interfering with. A search online for information concerning instructions for respect finds sites designed for all age levels, from toddlers to older adults. Respect for Senior parents is clearly essential. Pay attention.
One needs to accept that parents have lived longer than their children. “Older and wiser.” When parents’ choices begin to appear unsafe physically, socially, medically, or financially, it is time to sit down, listen to parental views, and calmly point out the pros and cons of each decision. An appropriate choice may take a while to reach, but a child who forcefully or continually pushes a different agenda often faces a stubborn parental rebuttal. The following are suggestions to take “the first step” in respecting Senior parents:
Communicate
Invite them to family events, celebrate big (promotions, new vehicles, home remodeling) and small (grandchild’s first tooth, city parade, new recipes) milestones. Life is comprised of both joy and sorrow. Both are handled best by calm, accepting communication with Senior parents.
When broaching sensitive topics like caregiving, finances, or living arrangements with aging parents, use empathy and respect. Begin by understanding their perspective and acknowledging the losses they may be experiencing. Practice active listening, offer options instead of directives, and involve them in decision-making to help them maintain a sense of control
Be Kind
No excuses. Recognize opportunities to assist parents with their needs. As one ages, transportation, balancing finances, new health diagnoses, and declining social activities become troublesome. Speak well of parents, their friends, and other elders. Value their opinion, even if biting your tongue in response. Give parents a leadership role when possible. Put cell phones down and focus on the person. Keep parents in your thoughts.
Respect and Transitioning to Senior Living Care
Utilizing compassion in your relationship with your Senior parents makes all the difference.
When a future move to Independent Senior Care, Assisted Living, Memory Care, or Long-Term Care becomes obvious, an important discussion will be more stress-free if respect is part of the conversation.
Bridge to Better Living has assisted thousands of families, each unique. Expert Transition Consultants provide a no-cost service to clients from consultations, tours and after following you and your parents’ criteria to discover an appropriate community meeting every need… socially, physically, medically, and financially. Contact Bridge to Better Living today, where respect is a lifestyle.
Remember, one day you too will be older and lean on your children for their opinions and assistance.