Age is just a number, they say. While it is true in some ways, it is also true that with age comes various kinds of unavoidable ailments and issues. However we take care of ourselves in our youth, aging takes a toll on us as our bodies become more susceptible and frail. Some aged people even have to opt for a caregiver as they need help to move from one place to another. Often, it is our parents who are affected by these diseases. Neuro diseases can especially be quite tragic as it makes the patient either forget things or limit their mobility. As their children, it often becomes stressful for us. Before things reach the point of no return, it is important to help your parents have fun while they can. As their kids, this is how you can make their lives even better.
Increase The Frequency Of Calls And Visit
For parents, seeing or hearing from their children is a great source of joy. If you used to call once a month or visit them twice a year, it is time to increase the frequency of these calls or visits. Call every week if possible and visit as often as you can. If you stay extremely far away, video calls are a great way to keep in touch. However, you would need to set it up for your parents and teach them how to do it as well or you could even ask their caregivers to do it. In case you have relatives staying near them, ask for their help and involve them as well. When people get old, the main problem they face is loneliness. If you involve a lot of people, it will at least help them feel less lonely.
Send Them On A Trip
If they do not have issues with mobility or any serious chronic disease, arrange a trip for them. Whether it’s an out of town trip or abroad, surprise your parents with tickets and an itinerary maybe on their anniversary or birthdays. Keep the itinerary short and relaxing. Of course, they might not be up for a seaplane ride or a hike up the hill, but a relaxing spa, yoga sessions in the morning, and historical walks across the city are brilliant ideas for elders. For an even more special touch, arrange for the hotel to have flowers and cake in the room. They will love you for being so thoughtful.
Surprise Them With Gifts
You can always buy your parents gifts, but often, it becomes a daunting task to find the perfect gift which not only will they adore but also find useful. Gadgets are good, but you have to make sure that you teach them how to use it as well. E-readers for those who love to read, movie subscriptions for movie-buffs or tickets to a baseball match are some very good ideas if you want to splurge. If you are gifting them a smartphone, teach them how they can use it to make their lives even better. Like they can pay all their bills, make appointments with their doctors without calling them, or even search for events happening nearby, where they can go and socialize. Just make sure they’re comfortable with it.
Help Them Create A Memory Book
Most elders love to talk about their past — the good memories that they had, the people who came into their lives; they have so many stories to tell. As their children, you can help them create a DIY memory book. You can either make or buy a ready-made scrapbook, paste pictures of people, pets, and places, and write a few lines about them. It will help them cherish their past and also keep them entertained at times of loneliness.
Encourage Them And Empathize With Them
Your parents are the reason why you are the person you are today — at least partly. When they are in their old age, all they need is your encouragement. Even before they succumb to any disease, start encouraging them to have a healthy lifestyle and help them get involved in various activities. Helping out at the community center or local church, joining the YMCA for a light fitness routine – these will not only keep them healthy physically and mentally, but will also create a social circle of friends for them. In times of need, when you are not around, your parents will have friends who will have their back.
Every parent tries to do their best to help their children grow up properly. Now, it is your turn to take care of your parents and keep them happy. You don’t have to treat them with lavish gifts or fancy dinners (you can if you want to, though). Don’t pity them; instead, show them some empathy and love because that’s all that matters.