Empathize With Them and Don’t Overreact
Aging is not something that happens overnight, and so the feeling of aging does not happen all at once, either. It is an accumulating series of losses — loss of employment due to retirement, loss of health, and energy due to fragility, loss of friends, loss of mobility and independence. Consider how you’d feel if you were in their situation. Be kind and gentle with your aging loved one and help them adjust and adapt to the changes. Do not get frustrated and angry with them if they resist your help or the need for additional care. Help them understand that it is for the best and that you only have their best interests in mind. Empathizing with them will help any transitions go much more smoothly. Working together on a strategy to take care of your aging parents is a great way to keep everything on friendly terms and to help them not be so reluctant!
