FamilyMuestra

Caring for Aging Parents

Family dynamics change when we realize that our parents suddenly seem much older − they are repeating things, are shuffling along, or become incontinent or fall ill often. It creeps up on us unawares and we need to be prepared to take things in our stride. Now is the time to rally the family together and make conscious efforts to meet more often and plan family activities around our aging folk.

It is worth the time, money, and effort and must be viewed as a golden opportunity to build bridges, sort out differences and communicate more meaningfully.

My mother’s recent illness has given me a new perspective. Instead of viewing caregiving as drudgery, I now view this as a time of learning. When I look at my parents, I am reminded that if I want to age gracefully, I have to start to live the way they did. A positive, trusting attitude needs to be built from our tender years. I am learning from my parent’s strengths and also from their weaknesses. I am learning to ask for help and am grateful to have siblings, friends, and relatives to pitch in and help me take care of my parents.

The thing that matters most is that we show them honor. Honoring our parents is how we come to recognize God’s moral authority over us. It is good not only for us but for our society. A society that does not have children who honor their parents is doomed for self-destruction.

Honoring our parents, irrespective of their shortcomings is a godly injunction. I have often looked at people who have honored their parents, and have been amazed to see that not one of them has been forsaken by the Lord. It is the only commandment with a promise! On the converse, I see a lack of blessing on those who have neglected this law. When we feel overwhelmed, we need to take one day at a time and must realize that we are not alone on this journey of caring for our aged parents.

Dear Father, I am so grateful for my parents. Help me to honor them as they should be honored. Amen.