Dealing with an elderly parent

[relm]

How do you deal with an elderly parent when they are depressed all the time and in a constant state of emotional turmoil (always crying, talking about death, etc.)? This has been going on for years now so it is very hard to take all the time. My mom is a widow and I am not religious so to me there is little comfort in life after death. It makes me want to not be around them at all when they are just always so depressed and sad for years. When you die you die and her body is starting to fall apart quickly now. How do you deal with all of this?

[winchester3]

I know this is easier said then done. But why get stressed and worried about somthing you can't prevent or do anything about? Accept the situation and let it go. Is she old and cenile. I mean does she remember everyones names each visit. She's your mom, she knows that you love her. I can guarantee that your mom does not want you to be upset over her. I'm not saying to just forget about her, just dont get all worked up about it.

[greensleeves]

I think that you should try to find some counseling for your mom. You obviously care about her and it's sad that she's feeling this way, but there isn't much that you can do to help with her depression on your own. Maybe you could also try to get her involved with some seniors groups amd activities.