subject: Peace Of Mind When Your Elderly Parents Are Far Away [print this page] It's funny how the course of our lives can often take us so far from what tends to matter most to us: our families. Education, job opportunities, climate, health, and finances can all motivate us to relocate, even if it means leaving behind many of the ones we love.
But as our parents age, the idea of being far away from them can become increasingly stressful for both them and us. Moving back into their neighborhood or transplanting them to yours is not always feasible. So how can you feel better about your elderly parents living on their own so far away?
Well, you should know that one of the most troubling aspects of an empty nest is loneliness, especially if one of your parents--or your parents' spouse, if you have a stepparent--has already passed away. So make it a point to call regularly--at least once a week, I suggest.
Don't hesitate to use other means of communication. If your parent(s) know how to use the computer, then don't forget to e-mail them or exchange instant messages. Keep them up to speed on your life with pictures and videos. If not, then handwrite letters and cards, including hard copies of those photos you would share through social networking.
If it's financially feasible, I also recommend that you schedule regular visits. It doesn't have to be for the holidays, since airfare tends to be a bit more expensive around those times. Instead, investigate travel expenses at off-season times.
The entire family doesn't have to go every time, since vacation time tends to be limited in these lean economic conditions, but being there for your parents is important, and taking trips will show them that you feel that way.
Investigate home care options in your parents' area, especially if they are facing health challenges that may be diminishing their independence. Companies that provide qualified home care will offer a variety of services, including (but not limited to) driving your parents to doctors' appointments, providing companionship, and supervising medical care by trained nurses while your parents are in their home.
This means that you will have more peace of mind, knowing your parents are being looked after by a team that has only your parents' best interest at heart.
However, be aware that your mother and father may resist. It is difficult to admit that you can no longer do things for yourself, so try to be patient and show them love and concern instead of trying to insist that they are too old and/or too sick to manage themselves.
by: Art Gib
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