Weighty Matters 101

Personal	Social	Ecological
Obesity - Bariatric Issues	Healthcare	Clean Water
	Aging Parents	Enough Water
	Unemployment
	Foreclosure

Social Issue: Aging Parents

Caring for an aging parent, elderly spouse, domestic partner or close friend presents difficult challenges – especially when a crisis hits and you are suddenly faced with the responsibilities of elder care.

Many of us, seniors included, will be called upon as caregivers of our loved ones. The first "baby boomers," the group born after World War II ended, are just entering their 60s. It is likely that this group of Americans may spend more years caring for elderly parents than they spend raising children. They truly exemplify the sandwich generation.

Caregiving can be complicated. Finding resources and making decisions is not an easy task. The entire family should be addressing caregiving issues. If elderly parents are capable, by all means, involve them in an open discussion of issues directly related to their future. If they seem reluctant at first, persist. It's far better to "air" their fears and yours now, while they are still capable. Be sure to involve all siblings in the discussion even the "long distance" children. If they can't be there, keep them well informed, preferably in writing. Informal letters serve well.

A USA TODAY/ABC News/Gallup Poll of baby boomers finds that 41% who have a living parent are providing care for them — either financial help, personal care or both — and 8% of boomers say their parents have moved in with them.

Of those who are not caring for an aging parent, 37% say they expect to do so in the future. About half say they're concerned about being able to provide such care.

It's estimated that 34 million Americans serve as unpaid caregivers for other adults, usually elderly relatives, and that they spend an average 21 hours a week helping out, according to a study released by AARP. Millions more grown children are calling regularly, flying into town every few weeks or months or just stopping by to take Mom or Dad to the doctor.

Be open about your what your ideas are on how they should be cared for and what your capability and willingness is to help them out. Recognize that your idea of what is best for your parents may not coincide with what they feel is best for them. Remember, as long as your parent is mentally competent to make decisions for himself or herself, you can not force them to do otherwise. Learning to live with a parent's decisions is a key task many adult children struggle with when it comes to coping with their aging parents. Some parents may not feel comfortable divulging financial information, even to their children. It's not important that the whole family know the details of their finances. What is important is that your parents, as they age, gather the information, are prepared for the possibility of incapacity and consider how to pay for long-term care if necessary.

Remember that seeking out resources does not just apply to your aging parents. Taking time to tend to your own mental, emotional and physical needs is vital. The best way to care and cope with your aging parent is to take care of yourself. Seek help through a support group, a therapist or even a friend willing to lend a helping hand or sympathetic ear. Caring for aging parents can be taxing physically, emotionally and financially; recognize your limitations and be willing to ask for help.