095. Do I visit my older parents enough, or am I neglecting my responsibilities? (The Distant Child)

  1. 1. Pro: Regular visits can provide emotional support, strengthen family bonds, and ensure the well-being of older parents.
    Psychology Today: [The Importance of Family Visits]
    https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/adolescents-explained/202102/how-spending-quality-time-can-really-strengthen-families
  2. 2. Con: Balancing personal responsibilities with frequent visits can be challenging and may lead to stress and burnout.
    Harvard Business Review: [Balancing Family Caregiving]
    https://hbswk.hbs.edu/item/with-millions-of-workers-juggling-caregiving-employers-need-to-rethink
  3. 3. Unsure: Establishing a regular schedule for visits and using technology to stay connected can help manage the balance effectively.
    AARP: [Staying Connected with Aging Parents]
    https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/basics/info-2020/preserving-dignity-aging-parents.html
  4. 4. Pro: Spending time with older parents can provide opportunities to create lasting memories and learn from their experiences.
    The Guardian: [Creating Memories with Elderly Parents]
    https://www.terrabellaseniorliving.com/senior-living-blog/7-ways-to-create-meaningful-memories-with-your-aging-parents/#
  5. 5. Con: Guilt over not visiting enough can impact mental health and strain relationships with both parents and other family members.
    Verywell Mind: [Dealing with Caregiver Guilt]
    https:// www.verywellmind.com/parent-guilt-causes-characteristics-and-coping-strategies-6746224
  6. 6. Unsure: Discussing expectations and needs with parents can help clarify how often visits are necessary and realistic.
    AgingCare: [Communicating with Aging Parents]
    https://www.agingcare.com/Articles/holding-family-meetings-for-aging-parents-142664.htm
  7. 7. Pro: Regular interaction can help monitor parents’ health and well-being, ensuring they receive necessary care and support.
    Mayo Clinic: [Caring for Aging Parents]
    https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/what-you-should-know-about-caring-for-an-aging-parent/
  8. 8. Con: Long distances or work commitments can make frequent visits difficult, leading to feelings of inadequacy.
    Psychology Today: [Managing Long-Distance Caregiving]
    https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/all-grown-up/202003/taking-care-of-an-elderly-parent-and-not-loving-it
  9. 9. Unsure: Exploring community resources and support groups can provide additional help and relieve some caregiving burdens.
    National Institute on Aging: [Caregiver Support Resources]
    https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/caregiving/taking-care-yourself-tips-caregivers