(Akiit.com) Your parents have always been there to ensure you’ve got everything you need, and that you’re happy with the way your life is going. But as we get older, a change comes upon us. It’s less about our parents making sure that we’re OK, and more about us making sure that our parents are OK. There is any number of issues that can affect elderly people that can prevent them from being as satisfied and happy as they should be. Below, we take a look at a number of ways you can ensure they’re able to be as happy as possible.
Stuck in the Home
You can’t expect your parents to forever be the energetic, go-getter members of the community that they were when they were 
younger. Decreased mobility and energy means they’ll likely be happier to stay indoors. However, this can cause problems. While it might seem like this is what they naturally want to do, it can have negative long-term effects. For instance, if an older adult spends all their time indoors, days could pass without them having a meaningful conversation. If one of your parents is spending too much time indoors, invite them out, and also encourage them to join social groups in their age range.
Nursing Home Issues
Most people assume that many of the issues that were present when the parent was living at home are eliminated when they move into a nursing home. This is not always the case. While there are plenty of respectful, thoughtful care home workers, others are less kind towards their patients. If you notice that your parent’s mood has changed, try to get to the bottom of what’s happened. If it turns out that the home isn’t treating them as well as they should be, then get in touch with a nursing home abuse attorney, and get justice. It won’t be your fault that they ended up in one of the bad nursing homes, and by taking action, you’ll ensure that no more damage is done.
Failing Health
It’s just a fact of life that, as we get older, our health can begin to worsen. Sometimes older people recognise this and take action themselves, but sometimes they don’t, and this is where you come in. Keep a close eye on your parent’s health to ensure that everything is fine. Also be aware that some older people need prompting to see a doctor when they’re unwell, so you may consider making the appointment and going with them.
Life Regrets
People can get pretty reflective when they’re nearing the end of their life. They may have regrets or have secrets that they’ve been carrying for a long time, but now want to talk about. You can be there for your parent by being a sympathetic, non-judgemental listener. Knowing that there’s something there with whom they can speak openly may be the greatest gift of all that you can give to your mother or father, one that’ll boost both your and their happiness.
Staff Writer; SherryBrown