How to Persuade a Parent to Quit Smoking

Your parents are usually the ones who tell you what to do. Depending how old you are, telling your parent to quit smoking may feel awkward. But in some circumstances, such as health related ones like smoking, the roles of parent and child can reverse with the child trying to help the parent. You can do your parent a favor by trying to help them live a healthier life.

Instructions

1. Tell your parent all the things in life that will improve if he stops smoking. He'll be able to taste food more, improve his sense of smell and not lose his breath as easily. His home, car and clothing won't stink any more. Make him understand that you really want him to quit smoking so he can enjoy the little everyday things he is missing.

2. Make your parent aware of how often she smokes, especially around you. Be honest. Make sure she is aware that smoking is not only harmful to herself but also those around her, including you.

3. Express to your parent that you want him to live a long and healthy life. Be stern with him. Doctors have proven that smoking will take away from your time together. Use a little shock value by telling him you hope his will is updated. And let him know about all the things he'll miss in the years smoking takes away from him -- depending on your age, he could miss your college graduation, your marriage and the birth of his grandchildren.

4. Remind your parent of the financial repercussions of smoking. As your parent ages and retires, money issues can become more pressing. Smoking is both expensive in the immediate cost of buying the cigarettes and in health care costs later on.

5. Create an activity for the both of you to do together that will keep him from smoking. Help him build an active and healthier lifestyle finding hobbies to do in place of smoking such as a physical activity like running or walking or something like volunteer work.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are nervous about telling your parent to quit smoking, have a few pamphlets ready when you decide to talk to him or her. The pamphlets can either do the talking for you or you can use them as an ice breaker.

• Remember above all else, you are interested in saving your parent's life. Don't be scared to have this frank discussion. Your parent may initially appear angry, but will know in her heart that you just want to help her have a better life.

Resources

• Here are useful tips from the foundation for a smoke free America.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
• Useful tool to assist your parent to be smoke free for the first year.