Aging parents..
Just wondering....what are you supposed to do with parents who live independently out-of-state, who are getting to the point of where they may need extra help on a day-to-day basis, but refuse to admit that they need help? I am an only child, and my parents choose to live very solitary lives...few friends and no family live near them. They voluntarily moved to their present home...away from the family that they do have (myself, my husband, and two children). Our relationship is strained for a number of reasons, but that does not make me stop wishing that they lived closer, or that I would have a way to effectively check on them. For example, if any thing ever happened to my mom, I know that my dad would either refuse to or be unable to contact us. I know this must sound like a puzzle of dysfunction...actually this is just the surface. Aging parents is a common concern, so I'm wondering if anyone has some advice...
I have a similar situation. I'm an only child who moved far away many years ago. My elderly parents have lived quiet independent lives until very recently when my mother went lame and is incontinent. My 90 year old father can no longer care for her at home. I've traveled the 3000 miles back 3 times already this year.
ReplyDeleteMy Advice: start assembling a team of support for your folks now. Visit if you can and check out all the social services, religious groups, assisted living, nursing homes whatever. Become familiar with all the resources and start a file. Also, become familiar with your parents finances, and get Power of Attorney and other information releases for their medical information should you need it. I started my search with a great online resource called "A Place for Mom" here in the US. Good luck. You are not alone!