Most of the helpful advice out there is addressed to adult children who are aware of caring for their senior parents, but what about those situations where adult children live far from the senior and simply don’t visit often? If your adult children are unaware of your needs or the needs of your spouse as you age, and you need their help, you may have to find a way to sit down and have a new version of ‘the talk’ with them.

It’s important to understand that your children may not be ready for this talk. They may choose to ignore the signs and be unprepared for the responsibility. Nevertheless, if you feel it’s time, then it’s time. Get in touch with your children and set aside a time when you can all chat together.

Next, prepare a list of notes ahead of time, and start with something small they can accomplish easily like working on a list of your medications and dosages and typing up the name of your doctor (or doctors). This way, if a medical emergency happens, they will be prepared to help the medical team as quickly as possible.

If you are finding it difficult to navigate to different floors of your home, talk with your children about the options available to you, including installing a stairlift. They can call us today for a free in-home estimate and be there to discuss the options, ask questions, and understand how it will work, so you have the support you need when the lift is installed.

Just as you guided your children and mentored them into adulthood and relative independence, as a senior, you may have to take them in hand and speak to them about your needs as you age.