55+ Living Guide Winter 2014 | Page 37

Adult Care What Part of the Equation are You? Choices Are you, or is someone you know worried about your aging loved ones? By Clare Colamaria, Founder of A Seniors Choice Online It is one thing to be thrown into crisis mode and forced to make quick decisions on unstudied facts because of sudden illness or tragic mishaps of a senior loved one, but it is a totally different situation and feeling to observe the changes of our loved ones over time. Some of our elders are well aware of their gradual decline and are faced with fears, worries and stresses. One of which is for them to actually admit and discuss thoughts: “I shouldn’t share my fears and worries with my children or caregivers because I do not want to burden them; they have their own lives and concerns. I don’t want to be more trouble for them.” I hear this a great deal from my clients. This thought process can be dangerous. This type of thought pattern is an obstacle for protecting themselves and the ones they love. I would encourage you, if you are a senior, to let your loved ones know your concerns, worries or fears. It will allow them to help you in