Dishin’ On Daytime

When I was growing up I thought my parents would never grow old.  Older yes, but never old.  Old meant not being able to cook for themselves or bath without assistance.  It’s hard to think of my parents growing older, yet we have recently had that “talk” about what happens if they can’t live on their own.  My dad really doesn’t like to discuss this, but at least my mom will share her thoughts.  They live in Toledo, I live in Columbus.  While I do have sisters in Toledo, is it really fair they are left with all the details?  And my mom might think about an assisted living facility, but dad is a yard and garden guy and giving up the dirt would be difficult for him.

So many questions and I’m just now looking for answers.

These past few weeks, I have had the pleasure of touring many retirement communities in Central Ohio as part of the Alzheimer special we are airing this week.  What I found was reassuring.  More and more these communities are just that…neighborhoods for seniors and not nursing centers.  These centers are full of activity, are beautifully decorated and every resident, at every level, seems content with where they are in life.  I also know that some seniors, like my father, may never find that contentment outside his own home. 

While my siblings and I wrestled with that eventual decision, I hope that my parents know what we do for them will be out of love and a desire for their happiness and well being.  They provided for us and now it’s our turn. 

I would love to hear from any of you who have been through this with thoughts on how to plan, and what has worked for your family.  Thanks.

Yeah, isn’t it funny how we all think our parents will never grow older.  It’s almost as if we think of them as mortal Gods.  The are in their own sense, without them we would not be here, they created us.  My parents our in there early 60s now, they are doing too but I can tell they have slowed down quite a bit.  I try to think of the time I spend them as very valuable, priceless is a more valuable word.  I try and take my Dad fishing at least once every other weekend.  This is a great time for my Dad and me, it bring us close every fishing trip.  When they’re are gone, I we will have is their memories.  That’s why it’s good to make spend time with them and make as many memories as you can.  I enjoyed reading your posts and hope you keep up the good work.