Gerontology Tips

• Don't expect to impress the elderly with an expensive car, successful job or fancy house.  
• Impossible to fool them on anything.  They know everything.
• They may prefer that all blinds and windows are covered before nightfall.
•  Information and phrases may be repeated within minutes.
• Do not be surprised to find a red velvet cupcake hidden in a purse.
• Do not rule out the possibility of washing unusual items....example:  a nylon purse to remove icing, and it will look better than before.
• Even if you are driving be prepared to get suggestions for going at a faster speed. 
• Be flexible in finding compatible products, like hearing aid batteries. 
• It is possible that they go to bed before 6pm.
• Elderly folks like their space and tire of you after a few days.
• Do not consider an insult if they want to cut their visit short, and prefer to leave after one day.
• They are determined and strong which is the reason they are still alive and kicking.
• They may have some good advice since they have gone through a long life.
• Do not expect any sympathy because nothing is a big deal to them at this point.
• They may not like TV and will care less about DWTS and Real Housewives reality shows.
• They do enjoy good food and sometimes lots of sweets.
• Take them out to eat even though it may take two people to get them inside.
• They may not care for pets, especially ones that are kept in the house.
• Everything you are buying is too expensive.
• They may want to drive 10 miles to save 30 cents.
• Use a pick to restyle bubble permed hair.
• They may want to eat dinner at 3 or 4pm instead of waiting until at least 6pm.
• They may not give you a Christmas present if they have not heard from you in a year.
• This is when you are hoping you have a daughter.  Women tend to be better caregivers than males and you will be this age soon.
• That expression "the patience of Job".....you may need that now.
• Keep a sense of humor.
• Appreciate their presence because tomorrow is uncertain.