Life Kit Checking In On Your Aging Loved Ones
Nov 12, 2020
Malaka Gharib, a science editor at NPR, shares insights on the emotional struggles of caring for aging loved ones during the pandemic. She discusses the loneliness many seniors face and the critical need for meaningful conversations. Empowering elderly relatives to find joy in simple activities, such as gardening, is emphasized. Gharib also highlights how crucial it is to respect their autonomy while staying vigilant about their well-being, underscoring the importance of open communication in fostering strong family connections.
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Check In and Listen
- Ask older loved ones how they are doing and if they need anything.
- Believe their responses, as younger people tend to dismiss older people's feelings.
Truly Listen and Dig Deeper
- Don't just treat "How are you?" as a formality.
- Listen carefully, and ask follow-up questions to get a deeper understanding.
Grandma's Untold Feelings
- Malaka Gharib's grandma initially said she was fine.
- After further probing, she revealed her loneliness and longing for her home.
