This is the time of the year where many of us will be spending more time with our family, friends, and our parents. Sometimes when we get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season it is easy to be overwhelmed and to not be as patient as our loved ones need us to be. Now, more than ever, is the time that we adult children need to slow down and support our parents especially if we are seeing signs of memory challenges. Here are 5 tips to help show your loving support:
Speak slowly and clearly. Cognitive decline, potentially coupled with hearing loss, makes it harder to process information quickly. Make it easier for Mom or Dad to follow your words by slowing down, speaking clearly, and pausing between sentences. If you’re talking face-to-face instead of over the phone, sit close, so you don’t have to speak loudly.
Only correct them when it’s essential. If a parent’s memory is fragile, there will be numerous instances when facts are confused, and details are forgotten, perhaps seconds later. Avoid correcting them unless it’s genuinely helpful to do so, enhancing their ability to enjoy the conversation.
Repeat things as often as necessary. It doesn’t matter that you’ve told the same story several times before. And, it’s irrelevant if you need to share important family news more than once. Instead of showing any signs of frustration over repeating yourself, be thankful that you’ll never run out of things to talk about!
Stay open to hearing their stories. Likewise, aging parents may forget that they shared something moments ago and repeat themselves. Typically, stories from their younger days are recalled more vividly and accurately than the events of the past 24 hours. Old stories may be familiar reruns too. But with patience, you might learn something new about your family’s history—a veritable gold nugget.
Remember gratitude. Caring for aging parents can be mentally exhausting, even if you aren’t their primary caregiver. If you’re feeling down, try recalling the many ways your parents helped you and feel thankful for their gifts of time, energy, and devotion. Focusing on gratitude can lighten your spirit and make it easier to return the love.
It can be hard to see someone you love struggle with mental decline as they age. Sadly, memory loss and other cognitive impairments are all too common. There are no easy solutions, but you can take these simple steps to treat aging parents with respect and compassion. If you find yourself in a situation where you need to help your loved one move and are looking for caring, compassionate, professional real estate help, consider giving me a call at 440-371-2862.