Yes, it is. Let’s admit it. No one feels nice walking away from elderly parents. And yet can sometimes turn them into manipulative parents to the point that you are tempted to stay in separate apartments.
But then, the Bible states,
“My child, take care of your father when he grows old; give him no cause for worry as long as he lives.
- Sirach 3:12
Bad parenting goals could have led to unhealthy attachment from the side of selfish parents and can leave some feeling trapped caring for elderly parents.
Feeling Trapped Caring For An Elderly Parent?
This can sadly be very common, but as the verse above continues to say..
“Those who abandon their parents or give them cause for anger may as well be cursing the Lord; they are already under the Lord’s curse.”
- Sirach 3:14
Don’t worry, there are ways to go about it without hurting your manipulative elderly parents.
A lot of manipulative elderly parents can get irrational, and this is more so when a child feels bad about walking away from elderly parents and gives in. While it is important to put yourself in their shoes, it is also important to be careful not to get fooled.
In the end, let’s put it this way. Parents need discipline too lest you start feeling trapped caring for an elderly parent, and so, here are some pointers on how to deal with selfish elderly parents.
Some Things To Know About Manipulative Elderly Parents
They are feeling trapped too, and a lot of them do not like the thought of losing their place in your lives and the importance you once gave them. They want to be heard. Sometimes their tantrums could be just because of a lack of attention from their children. They want someone to hear them out.
In other words, they want you to make some time for them.
Reasoning reduces with age, and so, a lot of them can become self-centered, without knowing or even wanting to accept some of their own mistakes.
So, in all that you do, remember to..
“Be sympathetic even if his mind fails him; don’t look down on him just because you are strong and healthy.”
- Sirach 3:13
How To Deal With Selfish Elderly Parents
In the end, let’s not forget that parents are parents, though they are far from perfect. So, let’s accept them for what they are flaws, weaknesses and all, yet without giving in to their controlling ways. Old age can bring with it a lot of insecurities and fears, all of which could turn them into manipulative elderly parents.
“The Lord will not forget the kindness you show to your father; it will help you to make up for your sins.
When you are in trouble, the Lord will remember your kindness and will help you; your sins will melt away like frost in warm sunshine.
- Sirach 3:12-16
So remember, careful yet empathetic. That is how to deal with selfish elderly parents.