Loving and Caring for an Aging Parent

I went through my life believing that the empathy I felt for people in challenging situations was enough for me to know what they were going through.  Boy…was I wrong!

I felt sympathy for many of my friends and family members when they lost a parent or a sibling.  I understood that life would be tough for a while, but then they would move on and life would continue.  After losing my mother in 2010, I gained a much deeper understanding of what it was to lose a parent.  And then again in 2015 I was presented with the emotional roller-coaster of losing a sibling. 

Now I am facing a new challenge…caring for my aging father.  I’m not in it alone.  My two sisters and I lean on each other and are always trying to do what is right and best for my daddy.  But we do have our struggles. 

Two and one-half years ago, my dad was diagnosed with dementia.  He has his good days and his bad days.  Then add in the year we have just been through and I can honestly say this has been one of the most challenging things I have encountered thus far in my life. 

From March through May, we could only speak to my daddy over the phone…thank goodness for FaceTime.  But as the year progressed this became more challenging because dad lost his ability not only to call us but also to answer his phone. 

During June into the late Fall, we were able to visit him outdoors.  This presented more challenges with timing/weather forecast/dad’s demeanor that day.  But it was all worth it to be able to see him in person.

Then we were faced with the matter of whether to have our father receive a vaccine for a virus that has turned our world upside down.  A vaccine that has shown an almost 50% chance, for those over 65 years of age, of experiencing days of miserable side effects in exchange for a vaccine that MAY keep you from catching the virus.  A vaccine that has been authorized for use NOT approved for use by the powers that be.

It is only one of many decisions that are made in the care of our dad.

And with all of that said, I am so blessed to have had my daddy around for almost 61 years of my life.  And he keeps talking about celebrating his 100^th birthday.  If anyone could make it to 100, I think he might be one of them.  I only want what is best for him.  I want him to be safe, cared for in a respectful manner and feel the love of his family.

For those of you out there currently caring for your aging parent, know that I am sending you wishes for love, comfort, and peace as you too navigate this unique road ahead.  Be well dear friends.