Gracefully Aging, Day 22: Our Aging Parents, Part 2

My brother-in-law with my father-in-law, who is nearing 90.  Family members make sure he has frequent meals out with us.

I asked my Facebook friends and blog readers to comment on their experiences in taking care of their aging parents.  Here are some of the responses:

Lea: (I've learned) that in order to be a good caregiver one must take care of herself or himself, with adequate rest, good nutrition and time for themselves.

Karen:   My mom is in a wonderful nursing home...she is in a wheelchair and has dementia. ..I have googled mom's favorite music and played for her...she always smiles so big when I do thus...I know that she remembers these oldies and perhaps a good memory will come to mind for her...also we reminisce about old times which helps me and her....

Amanda: I 've learned since working in a nursing home, to try a memory book.  We use a memory book a lot with my grandma. She has dementia and doesn't remember when we visit her. All it is, is a spiral notebook with the date the time of visit and what we talked about. When she doesn't think that we come and visit her, we open the book and let her read

Lauren:  I am seeing this with my Mom right now. My Grandmother passed away in January and my grandfather has had some health issues, so my Mom has been caring for him. She has some sisters who help, but she is retired so she is usually the one to do the running. It is emotionally exhausting. Definitely something for us to be planning for!

Tabitha:  At times it can be very frustrating...but never let them think for one second that you are irritated...it will make them feel like a burden and after they are gone, you'll regret it. I'm thankful that God helped me in this area with my in laws. There are still some things I regret (because there always are when someone dies), but that's not one of them...so thankful!

Looking ahead:

Finally...as much as we don't like to think of our own old age...it's actually just around the corner.  This article has some great advice and suggestions on how to plan for your own golden years, including anticipating financial and health concerns for yourself and your spouse.

I'm participating in "31 Days: A Writing Challenge,"  in which I 'll be blogging on the subject of Gracefully Aging every day during the month of October.  Click the button below for more information and links to each post as they become available!