In recent years, each visit to my parents is a lesson in the realities of aging. This time we are witnessing not only increased physical impairment, but the continuing struggle to make appropriate decisions about living arrangements. Independence is such a valued cultural and family trait that it becomes a hindrance to asking for assistance from family and friends. What I once studied in textbooks is revealing itself through their lives. The joys and pains of this time are real to all that surround them. My prayers are many including that I be more sensitive to all older adults and their families.
A Good Thought: Mother had commented how kind people are to them in public places. Yesterday, when we took them to a restaurant we saw this. Two frail people and two canes seem to bring out the best in people. My parents become everyone’s aging parents.
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3 comments:
......and the circle becomes a sphere. It is such a stress reliever when a staff in a public place will give attention and conversation to the aged. Other family members and caregivers are more at ease and can take a mental break. Sometimes 5 minutes away from the up-close-and-personal responsibility allows us to see that "community" is a far reaching and sometimes untapped spiritual resource.
The sunset picture is an effective illustration for aging. It can be beautiful, even as we recognize that it is an ending.
However young or old our parents, as we see little signs of aging, a small fear leaps in our hearts, going all the way back to the days of our birth when abandonment was our greatest fear.
anonymous should submit more insightful and well constructed comments.
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