Bittersweet is a term that is used when dealing with a situation makes you feel both happy and sad. I recently experienced this firsthand when visiting my elderly mom in Chicago.

I grew up in Chicago but moved to Rhode Island more that 40 years ago. I hadn’t been to visit my mom in several years. Her health had declined considerably since my last visit.

I have worked in the beauty industry for decades as a nail technician and had heard many stories about how difficult it is to deal with aging parents – especially parents from this generation, referred to as “The Silent Generation.” This generation was born after 1928 and before 1945. My mom was born in 1937.

This generation got its name because back then, children were to be seen and not heard. The characteristics of this generation include self-discipline, upholding of values, gratitude and an appreciation for the simple things in life. They are best characterized by their strong sense of determination and willpower. I’m here to say that is an understatement!

The Silent Generation suffers from many health issues. Back in their day, the dangers of smoking cigarettes weren’t known. It was the cool thing to do. Who doesn’t remember driving with your parents in a station wagon, with wood paneling on the side, both of them puffing away?

Let’s not even mention that fact that no one was wearing seatbelts and there was a seat facing backwards, so you were literally just inches away from the car behind you! In addition, working out wasn’t a thing yet. So many people in this generation suffer with complications with lungs and things associated with their lifestyle. My mother is one of them.

I had heard from clients for years that their parents were stubborn about accepting help and facing certain realities. Now I was experiencing it firsthand! Like my friends’ and clients’ parents, they don’t want to leave their home. They have trouble accepting help and are suspicious of wills and power of attorney. They don’t understand that everything they worked for their whole lives could be taken away with one fall, one hospital visit. This generation worked hard, and it’s difficult to negotiate with a person that you respect and believed was the smartest person you knew.

The good news is, my mom and I had a great time. I gave her grace with things that weren’t so important, and she allowed me to do the things that helped her out financially and medically. I left with lots of great things for my granddaughters that she had saved over the years and many stories that I hadn’t heard about my childhood and hers.

So love and enjoy your parents while you can.
You can reach out to me at SixtiesAndSexy@gmail.com and follow my blog at SixtiesAndSexy.net.