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Oh Orly advice column: Week of August 15

August 16, 2013 Editorial Staff

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Oh Orly,

My father is elderly and becoming forgetful. I find it difficult to deal with him as he continues to age – it is really hard to see him deteriorate and it is challenging to remain patient with him. Do you have any advice for how I can be more patient?

Margo G.
Greenpoint

Dear Margo,

I know how hard it is to take care of an elderly person. I also know the pain that comes with taking care of a sibling or a parent. I would suggest you sit for a few minutes quietly and reflect on all the good things about your dad: good memories, good conversations and so on.

Once you’ve done this, take a deep breath and realize that it’s your turn to take care of your dad. This will help alleviate the pain that you’re going through.

It’s like taking care of a child; there are good days, bad days and there are days that we just want to go crazy. We have the same love for a child that we have for our parents when our parents start behaving like a child.

So the bottom line is this: use the love you have for your dad to guide you to more patience. And know that as a daughter you’ve done everything you can.

When he is gone there will be a loss but no regrets. This is your chance to show him the love and affection you have for him while he’s still alive. Be well.

All for the best,

Smiles

Orly Amor, MBA International Public speaker

Business and Personal Coach