How to Help Aging Parents

Parents do so much for children during the growing years and even after they are grown. As parents grow older, they may need to depend on their adult children more. Aging parents often do not ask for help because they don't want to be a burden. This is why we need to recognize their needs and assist them.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Install a security system if your elderly parents live alone. It can give them the added protection they need to feel safe and secure.

2. Help with the housework. Drop by at least once a week to take out the trash, do laundry and cook.

3. Run errands. Aging parents would appreciate having someone doing the grocery shopping.

4. Cook Sunday dinner for your parents, or take them out to dinner any night of the week. You can also cook extra when cooking meals at home. Freeze them, and store for quick meals your dad can make when he is not up to cooking.

5. Take your parents on an outing, or just spend the day playing board games. Sometimes the greatest way you can help an aging parent is just to be there spending time with him.

Tips & Warnings

• Be flexible when possible. Let your elderly parent choose a good time to meet up.

• Don't condescend to the elderly. They are usually in as fine a state of mind as younger people.