Connie Matthiessen...

11 months ago

Thanks for your message. I agree with you that the direct approach is best -- and sometimes it's also effective, if we can help our elders understand that it's less frightening and upsetting to know the truth than to be kept in the dark. Stay in touch! Connie

Your article, word for word, is just how I grew up. My parents were raised during the depression and didn't even know their own mothers were pregnant until a sibling arrived. However as an adult child of senior parents, I find I need to really communicate with my parents just how much harder it is to find out kept secrets than to face each issue and deal with it. I know that sounds simple but it is true. And if you can get even one parent to open up it is worth it, to give each one of you peace of mind. I just let them know I am trying to protect their welfare as they have done for me.