I have taken on the responsibility of taking care of an Aging parent 
whose health has made a major downturn in the past three months. Over the past months, I have put the house up for sale, moved her into my home and also became responsible for all medical appointments and transportation.
Honestly, I did not know what this would entail. However, I knew deep down inside that I would one day have to take care of an Aging Parent.
It was not too long ago she was a perfectly healthy 78 year old, independent, enjoying life & her retirement years with family and friends. To be honest, I never thought that I would be in this position with an aging parent this soon. We have exchanged roles. I am the parent and she is the child.
After speaking with friends and family, I have found some useful tips that have helped me in this journey:
1-Ask for Help; Don’t feel you are Alone!!
You are not only responsible for your parent’s health & welfare but you become responsible for all financial obligations, medical inquires and entire well being. It can become overwhelming. I reached out for help. Calling all family members, friends as well as my church family.
2-Make sure all of their Business is in Order
Gather up as much information as you can. You will need to be informed about their creditors, health care providers, insurance as well as income & expenses. This may require that you or someone trustworthy become a power of attorney for your Aging Parent.
3-A Personal Prayer Life
This is not the time to ignore your prayer time. Be determined to keep that prayer time you have established with you and God. Prayer will help and strengthen you to make wise decisions regarding your Aging Parent as well as your own family.
Now, do not misinterpret what I am saying. I am not Complaining nor Regretting the decision to take care of my Aging Parent.
Matter of fact, I see this as an Honor and a Privilege to be able to Serve my Aging Parent in a capacity where I am able to. I see it as a way of repaying her of the many sacrifices she has made over the years for me and my sisters. I see it as a way of Repaying her for many years that she has sacrificed for us to be able to live a better life.
Everyday when I see her, before I leave her Prescence I tell her how much I love and appreciate her in My Life!!
Thank you Mom for the gift of Life & becoming a Living Example of Unconditional Love!!
