Showing respect to your elderly parents is a natural and time-honored way to express gratitude for the love and support you’ve received from them throughout the years. Here are several ways to show your parents they’re valued and appreciated
Ask for Advice and Listen to Opinions
Many elderly people have the inherent ability to offer sage advice when it’s needed most. Parenting never truly ends, and your senior parents should continue to be revered as knowledgeable guides even as they age and experience changes in their health. Your willingness to continue seeking advice from your parents can make them feel valuable.
Seniors can also become increasingly opinionated as time goes by. Taking the time to listen to your parents’ thoughts and ideas is important even when you aren’t actively seeking advice, and it provides the social engagement and the deep and meaningful relationships they need to preserve optimal emotional health. Try to offer your parents the same patience and respect you were shown during your childhood.
Showing respect to your parent is just one of the many ways to boost his or her emotional wellbeing, self-esteem, and overall health. If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a trusted provider of home care service. Our caregivers provide transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping
Offer to Become a Caregiver
Another way to show your parents respect is by offering to step in as a family caregiver, which many seniors are too proud or afraid to ask for. Fearful of becoming burdensome, some older adults attempt to get by on their own, even when doing so has a negative impact on their quality of life. Offering to take on the role of family caregiver shows you recognize the sacrifices your parents made on your behalf and that you’re willing to make many of those same sacrifices for them. Becoming a family caregiver also sets an impressive example of gratitude and respect for your own children.
Every senior has different needs when aging in place. Some simply need occasional assistance with household chores, while others may be managing serious illnesses and require more extensive live-in care. University Park seniors can count on Home Care Assistance to provide the in-home care they need and deserve.
Help with Long-Term Planning
Though many parents are both heartbroken and elated to see their children enter adulthood, they come to terms with the fact their kids are growing up and support them in their efforts to gain and maintain independence. Once your parents come to terms with their own aging, offer to help with long-term planning for home care and the challenges this might entail. Your support and acceptance can make this process much easier and give your parents the assurance they need to enter this stage of life confidently.
Families who need help caring for senior loved ones can turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of University Park in-home care. Services available in our customizable care plans include meal prep, mental and social stimulation, assistance with personal hygiene tasks, and much more. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (214) 363-3400 to learn more about our high-quality home care services.