Aging Parent Issues Therapy | Maplewood Counseling

How Therapy Helps Families Navigate Change

At Maplewood Counseling, we provide inclusive care for people of all races, cultures, and backgrounds, including interfaith, interracial, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and blended families. Our therapists bring lived experiences and specialized training to create a safe, affirming space for all.

How Therapy Helps Families Navigate Change

Aging parents face unique challenges that can affect their emotional well-being and family dynamics. Therapy provides support for both aging adults and their families, helping everyone navigate this life stage with greater ease.

Common Challenges Aging Parents Face

Aging brings significant changes that can be difficult to manage. Here are some common issues:

• Loss of Independence: Struggles with driving, household tasks, or personal care can lead to frustration and resistance to help.
• Social Isolation: Reduced mobility and the loss of friends can cause loneliness and depression.
• Health Concerns: Chronic pain, frequent medical appointments, and fear of being a burden add emotional stress.
• Grief and Loss: Coping with the death of loved ones and changes in daily routines can be overwhelming.
• Financial Worries: Fixed incomes and rising healthcare costs create anxiety and strain family relationships.

How Therapy Supports Aging Parents

Therapy helps aging adults address these challenges with practical tools and emotional support. Here’s how:

• Coping Strategies: Learn healthy ways to manage emotions and stress.
• Grief Processing: Work through loss in a safe, supportive space.
• Maintaining Purpose: Rediscover meaning through new interests or sharing wisdom.
• Managing Mental Health: Address depression and anxiety, which are often overlooked in older adults.

Benefits for Families

When aging parents receive therapy, the entire family benefits. Here’s how:

• Reduced Conflict: Improved communication helps families work together more effectively.
• Lower Caregiver Stress: Families can focus on practical support instead of emotional struggles.
• Better Decision-Making: Therapists provide guidance on care options and family dynamics.
• Stronger Relationships: Therapy fosters understanding and connection within families.

Types of Therapy for Aging Parents and Families

Different therapy approaches can address specific needs:

• Individual Therapy: One-on-one sessions for aging parents to explore emotions and challenges.
• Family Therapy: Collaborative sessions to improve communication and resolve conflicts.
• Couples Therapy: Support for aging couples navigating changes in roles and relationships.

Resources for Aging Parents and Families

Here are some helpful resources to complement therapy:

• Support Groups:

  • AARP and Alzheimer’s Association offer local and online support.
  • National Association of Area Agencies on Aging connects families with services.

• Online Resources:

  • AgingCare.com provides practical advice and forums.
  • Medicare.gov offers healthcare information.
  • National Institute on Aging shares tips for healthy aging.

• Professional Organizations:

  • National Association of Social Workers for geriatric care.
  • American Psychological Association for aging specialists.
  • National Academy of Certified Care Managers for care coordination.

Moving Forward with Support

Aging doesn’t have to mean facing challenges alone. Therapy provides tools for aging parents to navigate life changes with confidence and dignity. Families can focus on creating positive memories and maintaining strong connections.

If you’re ready to explore how therapy can help, contact us today.

📞 Phone: 973-902-8700
📍 Location: 169 Maplewood Ave #4, Maplewood, NJ
💻 Telehealth Services: Available across New Jersey

Book a Free Consultation

For Couples or Individuals Supporting Aging Parents

1. How can I help my aging parent who is resistant to accepting help?
It’s common for aging parents to resist help due to fear of losing independence. Start by having open, non-judgmental conversations about their concerns. Offer small, manageable forms of assistance and involve them in decision-making to maintain their sense of control. Therapy can also help them process these feelings and accept support more gracefully.

2. What should I do if my parent is struggling with loneliness or isolation?
Encourage your parent to stay socially active by joining community groups, attending senior activities, or connecting with friends and family. If mobility is an issue, explore virtual options like online support groups or video calls. Therapy can also help them address feelings of loneliness and build emotional resilience.

3. How can I support my parent who is grieving the loss of a spouse or close friend?
Grief is a natural process, but it can be overwhelming. Be patient and offer a listening ear without trying to “fix” their feelings. Encourage them to seek professional counseling, where they can process their grief in a safe and supportive environment.

4. What can I do if my parent is showing signs of depression or anxiety?
Look for signs like changes in appetite, sleep patterns, or withdrawal from activities they once enjoyed. Gently suggest therapy as a way to help them feel better. A therapist can provide tools to manage depression or anxiety and improve their overall well-being.

5. How can couples work together to support aging parents without creating conflict?
Supporting aging parents can be stressful for couples, especially if they have different opinions on caregiving. Open communication is key—discuss your concerns, set boundaries, and divide responsibilities fairly. Couples therapy can also help you navigate these challenges as a team.

6. What should I do if my parent is struggling with financial worries?
Start by having an honest conversation about their financial situation. Help them explore resources like government programs, community services, or financial planning options. Therapy can also help them manage the emotional stress associated with financial concerns.

7. How can I balance caregiving responsibilities with my own life and family?
Caregiving can be overwhelming, so it’s important to set boundaries and prioritize self-care. Delegate tasks to other family members or hire professional caregivers if possible. Therapy can provide emotional support and strategies to manage stress and avoid burnout.

8. What if my parent refuses to attend therapy?
If your parent is hesitant, explain how therapy can help them feel better and improve their quality of life. Offer to attend a session with them to ease their concerns. If they still refuse, consider family therapy to address the challenges together and find ways to support them indirectly.

9. How can I help my parent who is struggling with health issues or chronic pain?
Encourage them to follow their doctor’s recommendations and explore pain management options like physical therapy or mindfulness techniques. Therapy can also help them cope with the emotional impact of chronic pain and health challenges.

10. What resources are available for families supporting aging parents?
There are many resources available, including:

• Support Groups: AARP, Alzheimer’s Association, and local senior centers.
• Online Resources: AgingCare.com, Medicare.gov, and National Institute on Aging.
• Professional Help: Therapists specializing in geriatric care, financial planners, and care managers.

11. How can therapy help me as a caregiver?
Therapy provides a safe space to process your emotions, manage stress, and develop coping strategies. It can also help you improve communication with your parent and other family members, making caregiving more manageable.

12. What if my parent’s struggles are causing conflict within the family?
Family therapy can help resolve conflicts by improving communication and understanding among family members. A therapist can provide neutral guidance to address disagreements about caregiving, finances, or living arrangements.

Getting started is easy. Contact us to schedule an initial session, and we’ll work with you to create a personalized plan to help you manage anger and improve your emotional well-being.

Helpful Resources

• Individual Therapy: Personalized support for managing depression and stress.
• Understanding Anxiety: Learn how therapy can help manage anxiety.
• Grief Counseling: Support for processing loss and navigating grief.
• Guide to Self-Esteem: Build confidence and self-worth.
• Trauma-Informed Therapy: Support for Couples healing from past trauma.