The holidays drained all my energy. I can't seem to return to a normal schedule. My parents are basically healthy but no longer drive. So I am their chauffeur every day. I need a rest.
Yes, you do need a break from the tedious chores that sap your energy.
• By combining chores (a doctor appointment and shopping), you save yourself from running around every day.
• Hire someone to chauffeur your parents on a regular basis. This person can certainly take your parent grocery shopping or to the senior center or church.
• Locate a nearby assisted-living or continuing-care retire- ment community that has respite care, for a week or two. Your parents can stay at this "hotel" and be cared for. They also can participate in activities they would not normally have because they live in their own home.
You can go away on a vacation, knowing your parents are being well cared for. Or you can stay home and indulge yourself with lunch with friends or a spa day.
We're upset that my father refused to spend Christmas with us. In the past, my parents always stayed at least several days. My mother passed away three years ago. My father had been fine until his 14-year-old Lab died last summer. My father has become reclusive. How can we help him regain his former active lifestyle?
Only your father can regain his former lifestyle, perhaps with a little help from you and your sister.
Living alone can be depressing for many people. Coming home to a silent house can be daunting.
Another dog, another living thing, can help alleviate this silence. Pets do give unconditional love and need attention. People of all ages need to feel needed.
A puppy is a lot of work. An animal shelter or the rescue unit for Labs can provide a dog that has already been housebroken and somewhat trained. But your father should make the decision and choose the dog.
Studies continue to show that pet owners live longer and healthier.
Write to Carol Abaya at P. O. Box 132, Wickatunk, NJ 07765-0132 or visit thesandwich generation.com.
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