Step 3 - Investigate Senior Issues:
Avoid Assumptions About Your Aging Parents
The senior issues that your parents have will continue to multiply. It’s often tempting, as the pressures build, to want to jump immediately into action. You want to fix it. Solve the problem. Move on.
Not so fast. Jumping to conclusions and imposing a solution may actually make the situation worse. Imagine walking into an auto repair shop and complaining that your car is making noises. Then someone immediately starts fixing “something” and gives it back. You would be horrified. You expect them to take their time. To look under the hood and check out several options. Of course an experienced mechanic will have a reasoned assumption of what the problem could be. But that hunch is actually only a guide of where to look first. Even if you walked into the shop and told them exactly what you think is wrong; and they fixed that without any further questions or examination. You would still probably be upset. Thorough investigation is essential.
It's the same with your elderly parents. You notice they are forgetting things, and IMMEDIATELY make the assumption that have Alzheimers. Not so fast. There are many causes for memory loss -- like poor nutrition, sleep deprivation, or medications that are interacting poorly. Even emotional states like grieving or stress can take a toll on memory.So you'll want to take a slow and measured approach to any issue that you discuss with your elderly parent.
Be A DetectivePractice the same habits that you'd expect from an excellent doctor or outstanding detective. There are some do's and don’ts to discover the root causes of any senior issue that may present itself.
DON’T
Jump to conclusions
Rush to judgement
Pronounce a verdict immediately
DO
Investigate thoroughly
Look for clues
Keep track of evidence
Search for other suspects or causes
[Click on Step 4 below to learn how to continue the talks with your aging parents.]
Step 1 - Set the TEMPO
How to start to talking your elderly parents about the future.
Step 2 - Become a Partner -- NOT their Parent
Children of aging parents must build a partnership with their elders to talk about the future.
Step 4 - Research Senior Options
Research all the options before making decisions.
Step 5 - Invent a Solution
One size does not fit all. Invent a solution that best fits your parent's needs.
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