The sad truth is that millions of people have parents who are either no longer alive or not fit to be called parents. So, if you still have yours and they did a great job, why not show them appreciation? They are the people who gave you life and raised you, after all.
Here are three tips on showing your parents appreciation.
Facilitate Their Independence
Growing older is great, but it’s not the easiest thing. For instance, one disadvantage of growing older is losing independence. The human body changes and becomes less agile than it used to be. And memory starts to fade.
If you have parents that are starting to show signs of age, they’ll greatly appreciate you helping them to keep their independence for as long as possible.
Elder proofing their home for example – installing grab bars, widening doorways, buying stairway chair lifts – is a good call.
Or, if they require more extensive help, pay for an assisted living facility. These places are specifically designed for people who need a little extra help with things like cooking, cleaning, and bathing. And more importantly, they provide social activities and opportunities for residents to interact with one another which will further keep your parents’ minds sharp.
Make Time For Them
One of the best things you can do for your parents is to simply make time for them. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in work, school, and other commitments. But you really should make time as it’s a sign of love and appreciation.
So take the time to visit and just spend time with them doing things you both enjoy. And when you can’t physically be there, call or video call them.
Tell Them How You Feel
Nothing beats actually communicating words of appreciation to your parents.
If you struggle with expressing your feelings, don’t worry, you’re not alone. A lot of people have a hard time expressing themselves, especially when it comes to emotions. But there are a few things you can do to make it easier.
First, try to sit down and think about what you want to say before you say it. This will help you organize your thoughts and figure out exactly what you want to express.
Another great tip is to write down what you want to say. This can be in the form of a letter, a card, or even just a simple note. Writing your thoughts down will not only help you get your feelings out, but it will also give your parents something to hold onto and cherish.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to show your emotions. It’s okay to cry or laugh when you’re talking to your parents.
Remember that your parents are getting older and won’t be around forever. So take the time to show them appreciation while you still can. Facilitate their independence, make time for them, and tell them how you feel. These things will mean the world to them.
2018 ·