We become parents, and then need to face caring for our elderly parents. There are many things we can do to connect. This is personal story that I am sure many of you will relate to – those who are migrants or have elderly parents living far apart.
Only a few days ago, I waved good bye to my parents at Penang airport, and with a very heavy heart, we headed off to the departure lounge for our flight back to Sydney. While sitting at the departure gate, my mind was thinking about my elderly parents, slowing walking to their car, with my dad on his prosthetic leg and walking frames and my frail and slight mum walking next to him.
I was torn; on one hand, I was so excited to get back home and be with my children, however, on the other hand, it was frustrating and sad to leave my parents. This is the time when they need our support most, both emotionally and physically, yet I live so far away. I know I am not alone with these thoughts, especially for those who have elderly parents living far away from them.
Here are few things I am sharing with you that I do, and I hope that it will help if you are in similar situation:
- Give your parents a call at least once a week.
- Provide financial assistance to make their lives more comfortable.
- Encourage them to be involved in social activities, which promotes both emotional as well as physical health and overall well being.
- Encourage them to keep fit and healthy, and to be in the company of friends and relatives that share the same outlook,
- Make sure they are enrolled in appropriate physical therapy, like physiotherapy, to help them recover faster after injuries or falls.
- If your parents are linked to social media (unfortunately mine are not), link up with them daily and share your experiences and tales.
Nowadays with social media and the internet, it is easier and cheaper to share news and connect. Remember, distance is not an issue. It is about putting some time aside to connect with the family.
When we were back in Penang, we were on the road for many hours, keeping in touch with as many of our relatives as possible. We appreciate that our elderly relatives are aging, and whatever time we have with them is a bonus, while at the same time we are getting to know the younger generations of our extended family.
However, I fully appreciate that no amount of phone calls or writing can make up for the distance apart. I know that you are doing your best at the moment with whatever possible means you have.
It would really mean a lot to me if you could share your experiences on how do you support your elderly parents both emotionally and physically when they live far away from you. We can learn from each other.
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