Seven Tips to Help Boomer’s Communicate With Their Aging Parents

1.  Get started.  Start observing and gathering information carefully and thoughtfully with an open mind.

2.  Talk it out.  Discuss what you’ve observed and ask your parents what they think is going on.  

3.  Sooner is best.  Talk sooner, rather than later when a crisis has occurred. 

4.  Forget the baby talk.  Remember you are talking to an adult, not a child. 

5.  Maximize independence.  Always try to move toward solutions that provide the maximum independence for the older person. 

6.  Stay tuned in.   If dad dies and soon afterward,  mom’s house seems to be in disarray, it’s likely to stem from  the loss of a life-long relationship not sudden illness. 

7.  Ask for help.  Many issues can be solved by providing support they need to continue to maintain their independence.  Resources such as Home Instead Senior Care, Area Agencies on Aging and local senior centers can help provide those solutions.