Your elderly parent is probably discovering that they need more help around the house or some additional money. It is getting harder for them to keep up with their daily chores and errands, along with managing their medications, and go about their usual days.
You love them and want to care for them, but you might be struggling to manage their expectations because you are also juggling your tasks.
Here are 6 ways you can manage the expectations of an elderly parent:
1. Treat Them with Respect
Parents are human beings with their thoughts, values, and aspirations. Therefore, what you see as a problem may not be one at all.
Rather than assuming you know what they need, try asking them first. Let your parent know how you feel about a particular situation and why it bothers you.
Ask for their feedback on potential solutions and honor it. You may not need to intervene as much as you think you do unless there is a danger to their health or safety.
2. Assist with Emotional Support
Your parent is becoming older, and you need to realize that they may not be as swift or powerful as they once were. Keep up with their pace and offer emotional support when they need it.
That is why you should talk with your parent. You won’t know what they are going through if you do not communicate your concerns.
3. Hire a Caretaker for Them
Consider hiring a caretaker for them, so they aren’t completely reliant on you. Even if you are not physically present, your parent will know that you care about them if you engage someone to look after them.
4. Engage with Them
Older people find it hard to sleep well when their days are empty. They can only move around a limited area and engage with a small number of people during the day.
It will help if you encourage them to take up a new interest, enroll in a class, or take them out for dinner. Easy tasks that allow your parents to be engaged and spend some quality time are a great idea.
5. Find the Clues on Your Own
Monitoring yourself is an effective way to ensure that you don’t end up pestering your parents with too many inquiries. Stop asking them what they want all the time and instead pay attention. Keep an eye out for clues.
If you have any doubts about their ability to make food, offer to prepare it for them. Look for dirty laundry and other evidence of ignored responsibilities, and silently do it for them.
6. Provide Financial Aid
Become a giver, and you will be happier with your life. Keeping in touch with your parents can sometimes become a hassle when you’re busy, but it is essential. You can delegate part of the work to your siblings to alleviate some stress.
Additionally, you might assist your parents in locating and applying for various types of grants and other financial aid.
Wrapping Up
As an individual with your own life, you may find it hard to manage the expectations of your elderly parent. Even though this may be a difficult task, the suggestions provided above will help do a better job.
Tell them you believe in them and that you will be there for them. The most valuable things that children can give their elderly parents are love and support.