When a child is born, he has his parents to look after him for the rest of his life. They nurture him and support him in every way possible. However, when the same child grows up, he has his own life and priorities. He somehow fails to realize that while he is growing up into an adult, his parents are turning old. There comes a stage in their life when they, like an infant; need nurturing, care, love and support.
Sadly, most of our parents are made to live a life full of solitude. While some parents are disowned by their kids, some stay with them without realizing their presence around. When parents can do so much for us all their lives, why can't we as responsible adults take care of them when they need us the most? Looking after the elderly parents is not just a moral obligation, but is even a justified humanitarian act. You just have to accept the reality and understand that old age is the replica of childhood where just like a child, the older people too need that special attention.
It's All About Loving Your Parents : The concept of nuclear family has taken a toll on our society. As soon as children grow up, have a career of their own, a partner to share the rest of their life; they simply walk off. Left behind are the old figures who now have no one to rely upon. Even while staying under the same roof, we get so engrossed in our happening lives that we don't realize how an old man or woman in the house is longing for our presence. They don't expect anything from us except for some time and little love. Think of the good things they have done for you sacrificing all their desires. Taking care of your aging parents is not that tough as it seems to be, provided you have the heart to do it.
How to take care of your parents?Let us find out how we can take care of our aging parents and help them enjoy their old age to the fullest.
Accept the changes: First and foremost, you will have to accept things as they are. Once you were a child, your parents took care of you. Now it's your turn to look after them. Remember, you will also get old someday and need support from your kids. Look at things with this perspective and you will never find it a burden to take care of your aging parents.
Give them the due respect: They might have grown old but their experience is a lot more than that of yours. Respect that! Make your parents feel valued and look up to them for advice on family matters if not professional. If you give them the due respect as the head of the family, they will always stand as a pillar of strength and support.
Spend time: As they have been in the stage you are now, they very well understand the responsibilities you have. They too had a lot on their shoulders when they were busy raising you. But they always had time for you. Same way, you should also spend time with them. Have your breakfast together, gather around for evening dinner and some chit-chat. This will not only make them happy but will even help you reduce your stress.
Be patient: Remember how you used to load them with your silly questions as a child. But no matter how many times you demanded an answer, your parents did it without any complaint or anger. They were always patient when you couldn't remember your nursery rhymes or math tables. They have done their part and now it's your turn. Never lose patience when talking to your older parents. Due to the age factor, they might not remember certain things or find it difficult to understand new technology. Just be patient and let them take their own sweet time to comprehend things.
Never make them feel alone: Loneliness is known to be the biggest disease for mankind. Never let your parents feel that they are all alone. If you stay in some other city or country; dig out time in giving them a call at least once a week. Don't always blame it on lack of time as 'I'm busy is a mere excuse' because if you genuinely want to do something, you will do it without fail. Even when living in the same house, see to it that you keep checking on them. Sit with them and have some healthy talk. Also, see that they utilize their time in some recreational activities. You can make them join a club for senior citizens where they can have new friends and various activities to undertake. Just lend your support in whatever they wish to do.
Make your kids also respect them: What you do today will have a major impact on your future. The way you behave with your parents will always be noted and in all possibilities followed by your own kids. Never leave a bad impression on their tender minds. They must also be made to respect and love their grandparents. See to it that they have enough time with them as this way your kids will learn some good things about life. As grandparents, they will not only look after them with affection but will always guard and protect them against all odds.
Let your parents enjoy their old age with sheer pride and satisfaction. Always remember, caring and loving those who once loved and cared for us is truly the highest honor.