You are never in the mood to do anything

This is probably one of the things you should never tell your aging parents especially if you know they have a health condition that makes them feel exhausted or moody.

Allowing an older person to “vent” about their health for a short while, showing compassion, and then guiding them or encouraging them to schedule an appointment may be a better way to handle the situation than getting annoyed by hearing them say they never feel in the mood to do something.

Once you’ve expressed your regret for their suffering or having to take several medications, talk about a happy memory or event. It’s proven that redirecting your loved one’s focus, even for a little while, can improve their health.

Don’t say you can’t do that! It’s not even that hard

For many seniors, those activities that were once pleasant and easy to do now become daunting. This painful reminder that they are incapable of doing the things they used to be able to do can make them feel rejected by their kids.

Instead of getting worked up, try giving your senior parents new versions of the activity at hand or writing out instructions in case they forget while you’re not there. Stick the instruction notes on the fridge, near the bed, or whenever they spend time more often.

Coping with difficult old parents isn’t always easy, but we must remember that, after all, they’re still our parents who took care of us when we were little. If you are dealing with a complicated situation at home, this book might teach you how to communicate better with your parents, be empathic, and establish some boundaries without being rude. You can find it on Amazon in the paperback version for just $13.54.