There will, at some point today, be a moment. Repeated many times, in many families around the country. Amid the cards, hugs, flowers and brunches an adult child will think to themselves, mom is getting older. Family members may even share anxious glances over the shared realization. These moments often lead to thinking about discussing the future with elderly parents.
Don’t get us wrong. Celebrating the patience, wisdom, generosity and strength of mothers is one of our favorite occasions. Still, AgePros know it can also be a day when the fragility of these remarkable individuals becomes all too apparent.
That realization drives home how important it is to discuss the future with elderly parents sooner rather than later. To share concerns, preferences and plans.
AgePros also understand this can be a difficult conversation to even to get started, today or any day.
In fact, talking to aging parents about planning for their future is so notoriously fraught even for AgePros, no less than The New York Times recently ran an Opinion piece on the subject.
The author, a loving daughter, as well as a palliative and critical care physician had long wrestled with the challenge. Her parents, both in the 80’s, are also doctors. Yet still, even with their shared professional understanding of how quickly health, wellness and independence can change for the elderly, mom and dad weren’t having it. They consistently resisted planning for their advancing age.
The essays ends with a ray of hope and simple message: Keep at it. Gently but firmly keep trying to have the conversation. Eventually, the importance will sink in. Decisions will be made. Action taken.
AgePros already know this, from both professional and, often, personal experience. You also know how uniquely positioned you are to help families meet the challenge of aging parents, doing so with a warmth and professionalism that would make any mother proud.
Happy Mother’s Day!
Share your thoughts on helping clients (and yourselves) have that conversation. Email or comment below. Tomorrow, after you celebrate mother’s day.
