Elderly parents are a boon, a blessing, and great company

We look after our parents, as though they are our children [in a way they are], but not to forget, they had lived a complete life, cared for others, taken decisions, etc, which means their expectations and demands will vary and will be different from just food, security and medical attention.

1. Communication - talk to them once a day. Just listen, even if they are repeating themselves.

2. Respect - Treat them with dignity, even if they spill food or are clumsy. They may fall, and out of concern, we say "please do not walk around when I am not there,..... etc." This might make them feel dependent, and depressed.

3. Involvement –To keep their self esteem up, and capitalise on their vast experience, involve them in all important conversations and decisions.

4. Financial independence- You may pay for all their needs, but for a small thing they should not have to ask for money. Try to give them money discreetly, every month...... might be for a cup of tea around the corner, with some other elderly people :-), or just to buy some small sweets for a child .

5. Engagement- They were managing an entire household, now we pamper them, saying, "please sit down, don't do anything". This might hurt them and make them feel useless. You can encourage them learn a new hobby or join some class or take them out for dinners or do simple chores, anything that can keep them look forward to.

6. Fear of diseases - As our parents grow old we start analyzing their every action for possible diseases and illnesses.

Let us be positive and trust that if we treat them like equal partners and like free birds, they will chirp happily in our lives, for a long time!