Denial about a need for care is one of the most difficult issues to deal with as a child who sees their parent struggling. Often parents expect children, especially if they live close, to provide whatever assistance is needed. In many cases this means that the adult child visits the parent in the evenings during the week and on the weekends, leaving little time for their own family, friends or just taking a break. When this occurs it’s important to have a conversation about expectations which is often difficult for the child because they feel guilty, not being able to satisfy their parents needs. A good way to think about this as a child is to look back at the conversations your parents had with you when you were a child. There must have been a time when they had to tell you no or to provide a limit on something you wanted. Whether it was a new bicycle, a school field trip that was unaffordable or going out with a questionable friend. Now the tables have turned and you must be the parent.
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