Support for caring for an elderly relative

[Laura Holt]

I mentioned in the health thread that my Dad had another bout of Covid complicated by having it morph into pneumonia.  Anyway a side affect of this has been he has been having a lot of falls lately.  He should have been using a cane for support even before this (but he wouldn't do it) but a benefit (?) of this has been he now uses a walker.  

One of the most challenging parts of coping with an elderly parent is walking that fine line between acknowledging they are still the parent and that they are also adults who should be making their own decisions and knowing that you are right dammit! and that you are trying to make choices that are in their best interest.

Sigh.  Wording things in just the right way to encourage without seeming like I'm taking over and telling him what to do has not been easy.

[supposebly]

Dizziness is a symptom of long COVID. I've been having those spells since I had COVID this summer. Just for moments but they think it happens if the infection affects the inner ear.

[Dimity]

I know others posting here have expressed concern (in this thread and elsewhere) about elderly parents and driving.  I am thrilled to report that my father has finally accepted that he shouldn't be behind the wheel.  We moved quickly (he's flip flopped on this a few times in the last few years) and his car has now been sold.  I totally get how hard it is to give up something you've been doing for over 70 years and it's another step away from being totally independent but him driving was becoming a risk to himself and to others on the road.