Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 51 health. Encourage and support your parents’ independence. • Let your parents know about community services or assistance available to them so they can make informed choices for themselves. • Encourage your parents to discuss sensitive issues, like disability, nursing homes, even dying, if and when they seem interested in such discussions. • Learn what the legal system has to offer you and your parents. Options like a power of attorney may help to manage your parents’ finances and their future. What can you do for yourself? To cope well, it helps to separate the "person" (your parent) from the "process" (normal aging). Beware of stereotypes -both you and your parent need to be on guard against the myth that old age is an illness. This is far from true. Most seniors are well, active and mentally fit. Some changes normally occur as we age. For example, we experience a gradual need for more light, a decreased hearing range, changes in the sense of taste and smell, and a general decrease in the efficiency of the body’s organs and systems. Adapting to these changes is easier once we understand them. You may find yourself feeling trapped and guilty as you try to juggle the multiple demands, stresses and responsibilities of your new situation. This can threaten not only your health, but your marriage, job, relationship with your children, and financial security. Be on the lookout for signs of stress and burnout. Symptoms may include: depression, constant fatigue, poor concentration, hostility, low selfesteem and / or physical illness. You may need to pay more attention to your own independence. Do not become too involved in your parents’ day-to-day activities at the expense of your own independence. Talk to them honestly and confidently about your needs and feelings while listening to and respecting what they have to say about theirs. Caregivers often lack role models. Joining a caregiver group where you can share ideas, information, concerns and support can be invaluable. A caregiver group can also help you develop skills such as assertiveness and stress management, and teach you how to express your feelings. ...Continued “To cope well, it helps to separate the “person” (your parent) from the “process” (normal again).” As originally published on www.cmha.ca AGING PARENTS
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