Your parents were there for you during the early decades of your life, so it is understandable to worry about them as they get older. But keep in mind that their worries may differ than yours; as they enter an entirely different phase, their needs may differ greatly from yours; as adults themselves age, their affection needs change considerably as do those of other their age and they require support and affection from adult children as well as from others of similar ages. They require active lifestyles with proper nutrition and home security solutions as well as proper medical attention.
Reassuring your parents about memory loss is key when approaching them about it. A common fear amongst individuals is that memory lapses are indicative of dementia or Alzheimer’s, when in reality these lapses often arise due to distraction or fatigue – for instance your mom forgetting why she entered the living room or dad misplacing his keys – thus it’s essential that these instances receive ample reassurance; considering consulting a geriatrician is recommended in these instances as well.
Many older adults can be resistant to admitting they’re losing function or independence, often acting stubborn, secretive and argumentative as a defense mechanism against losing dignity and independence. Understanding their motivation behind their behavior will help you remain patient and understanding during these stressful conversations. Furthermore, practicing gratitude – an effective positive psychology concept – may also prove beneficial; research shows it increases feelings of appreciation, optimism and peace that can reduce stress levels significantly.