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How old was my parents when they first moved in?

By Emily Wong

How old was my parents when they first moved in?

Eleven years have passed since my parents first moved in. The sudden death of my brother, who was just 50 years old, has sped up their aging and brought on some depression, particularly in my father.

What happens to my parents when they get older?

The sudden death of my brother, who was just 50 years old, has sped up their aging and brought on some depression, particularly in my father. Although Dad jogged regularly up until a couple years ago, he no longer even takes walks.

Why does my elderly father stay awake all day?

Fortunately our caregiver’s husband was available part time and had experience AND agreed to help out. That’s when his behavior began to change. He would stay awake for longer and longer periods of time. I think it was because he had a companion and his companion initiated activities — engaged Dad in things Dad liked to do.

How big of an apartment did my parents move into?

We built them an in-law apartment that is nearly 1,000 square feet, with a kitchen and laundry facilities. My mom and dad were fully independent at the time, but my husband and I felt it was better to be prepared for their decline and avoid scrambling if a crisis arose.

Eleven years have passed since my parents first moved in. The sudden death of my brother, who was just 50 years old, has sped up their aging and brought on some depression, particularly in my father.

Who was the oldest to take care of her parents?

“My dad took me for a walk one day and asked if I could look after them as they got older and I said yes. I’m the oldest child and the oldest assumes responsibility,” she said. For years her father — a difficult man, by Fiore’s account — had heart problems; her mother had a nervous breakdown and a slow, extended recovery.

The sudden death of my brother, who was just 50 years old, has sped up their aging and brought on some depression, particularly in my father. Although Dad jogged regularly up until a couple years ago, he no longer even takes walks.

What are the implications of caring for an elderly parent?

The implications of later-life caregiving are considerable. Turning an elderly parent in bed, helping someone get into a car or waking up at night to provide assistance can be demanding on older bodies, which are more vulnerable and less able to recover from physical strain. Emotional distress can aggravate this vulnerability.