Children are not the only ones who need love. Parents also want to feel that their children love them – especially during their twilight years. Most parents would do anything to give what their children need and want. They deserve to be shown the same affection and respect as they age.
If your parents are in that situation, the least you can do is to put them up in a beautiful facility where they can enjoy independent living among their peers amidst amenities that make life comfortable for them. But that is not enough. Showing your parents that you love them goes beyond the material things. Here are some simple suggestions.
Give Them Credit for Their Hard Work
Your parents did not give up on you; they probably never will. You became what you are now because they helped you get there. They put food on the table, gave you a home to enjoy, put you to a decent school, and sacrificed many things so you can have what you want.
Are you thinking of a way to repay their selflessness? Tell everyone that you are a successful person because of them. Talk about them; you have social media as your stage. Be proud to have parents like them and let the world know.
Include Them in Your Good News
Your parents are the proudest when you achieve something. Share with them all your accomplishments because they will love to hear it. They are your greatest supporters. When you have something good going for you, don’t leave them in the dark.
Reminisce Fun Times with Your Parents
Your parents will be happy when you sit down with them and look at old pictures of you and your siblings as children, or even of them as a young couple with their families. Reminiscing can trigger happy feelings in the elderly. Do it once in a while with your parents to stimulate their minds.
Call or Send Them a Text Message Regularly
You can’t give all of your time to your parents when you live independently, but you can, at least, call or text now and then. Using Skype is also useful if they know how to navigate it; you can start by teaching them how.
Encourage Them to Stay Active
Your parents may lose interest in some or many things when they get older. Be a hero to your parents by reintroducing them to the activities they once loved. Find some activity or sports that they can do without jeopardizing their health. You can also introduce them to new things that are accessible where they live.
Find Time for Them
You may be busy but don’t leave them behind. Make them feel loved by sharing precious moments with them. Take them on family adventures. Are you planning to bring your family to the Led Zeppelin-Phoenix Symphony concert next month in Phoenix, AZ? The Diamond Backs vs. the Atlanta Braves game, perhaps? Or Ballet Arizona’s All Balanchine? Bringing your parents to these trips can be beneficial for them, especially when you have children of your own. The love of their grandchildren will keep them active.
Don’t forget and neglect your parents when they are older. This is the time when they need you the most. On the other hand, be respectful and loving to your parents even when they are still younger. Make every day count and love your parents every time.
