At this time age manifests itself differently. Before, a sixty-year-old person was considered old. Today many people of sixty or more still work. Others take care of grandchildren or participate in activities for the elderly. Working women and men develop a more independent attitude when they reach retirement age. Many do not expect their children to have the responsibility of caring for them at their older age. They must understand that their children have families, work and have other responsibilities.
But there comes a time when the circumstances of life put us to the test, and we have to turn to our children for help. At that time, we must consider the situation of each of the children. We do not want to create discomfort among them as some can and others cannot take care of us. There are many resources that we can use to solve daily situations when age limits us. The decision of who will take care of the elderly is a very particular one for each family. Many times, the children want to do it and cannot because of their commitments. We must educate ourselves from the perspective that the responsibility to take care of ourselves is ours.
Our children are there to support us, give us love and understanding. We must not become a hindrance to our family. On the contrary, we must help each other so that those last years are full of peace and pleasant memories.
Maria M. Garcia, BA, MA
