This happens when your elderly parent starts displaying attitudes and actions that were once deemed adolescent or juvenile in you when you were younger. It makes you want to shake your head in wonder, and it's the most frustrating issue you'll deal with regarding your care for them. So, how do you handle the new dynamics of your parent/child relationship.
1. Respect ~ You would think this is a given, but after a while your patience will become thin. It's so important during those times to remember what your parent did for you, and what they had to put up with when you were younger. They did the best they could in raising you, and it's time to reciprocate that love and devotion. Just because you are “in charge” does not take away their individual rights either. You need to allow them to believe they are still in control while maintaining those safe boundaries. Allowing them leeway to make mistakes, misbehave a little, as long as there are no life threatening or financially repercussions, will help build a healthy level of respect.
2. Patience ~ Somehow you must find the very last reserves of this valuable quality. Most times your elderly parent does not understand how their attitudes and actions are affecting you. When you find yourself in a trying situation with them how you handle it will determine the success or failure of caring for them.
3. Empathy ~ You can only understand what your elderly parent is experiencing up to a point, but continually asking yourself how would you feel under the same circumstances. This will keep things in perspective. By being empathetic to their wants and needs you will be better able to make decisions for their care.
4. Replenish ~ If you are not taking care of yourself you are no good to your elderly parent. Just as they needed to stay fit and healthy while raising you, you must take time to refresh your mind, soul, and body for the tasks of caring for them. Eating right, exercising, and taking time to relax away from them.
5. Joy ~ You have to look at this experience as an opportunity. A chance to strengthen the bonds or your relationship with your parent. You will grow spiritually and mentally during this time, and you will have memories to treasure when they are no longer with you. You will be glad you were able to be there for them when they needed you the most, and they really are grateful for your help.
If all else fails find a way to laugh. It will get you through the tough times.
If all else fails find a way to laugh. It will get you through the tough times.
Hi, I popped over from the EldercareABC blog carnival and really enjoyed this article as well. ;) excellent points! As with so many things in life , it's not always easy but so worthwhile. And God is so good through it all! Have a blessed week.
ReplyDelete