UNDERSTANDING AGING PARENTS

   

 

       

 

Aging parents may experience physical, emotional, and cognitive changes that require supportive care.  Put yourself in their shoes and understand that aging can involve loss of independence, energy, and mobility 

 Help them maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep & make minor adjustments to their daily routine 

Understanding aging parents involves being patient, respectful, and open to communication. It can also help to recognize that changes in abilities and lifestyle can be emotional for them. 

Tips for Understanding Aging Parents

Communicate: Practice good communication skills, and ask open-ended questions to encourage discussion. 

Be respectful: Express your concerns, and validate their feelings and concerns. 

Be patient: Recognize that changes in abilities or lifestyle can be deeply emotional. 

Encourage independence: Focus on your parents' abilities, and celebrate what they can still do. 

Establish boundaries: Prioritize your own well-being and mental health by setting healthy boundaries. 

Maintain a routine: A regular schedule can reduce anxiety, confusion, and feelings of helplessness. 

Educate yourself: Learn about cognitive decline, and how to recognize signs of fear and anxiety. 

 Realize your older family members' need for having someone to confide in, for reassurance and care, to receive affection and respect, and to discuss problems does not change as they grow older. Be available and offer words of support. Ask your parents to share their current experience as an older person. Listen.