4 Make new memories together

“In a desire to help my widowed mum, I attacked the mildew in her bathroom, until I realised I was being like a bull in a china shop”

‘Parents feel loved when they are told how much they are appreciated and how you feel in their presence, says therapist Samantha Carbon. ‘As well as recognising what makes them special and letting them know, it’s important to continue to create memories.’

‘Older loved ones can be embarrassed by expressions of love but it’s still worth letting them know how much they mean to us – let it come from the heart and, if they gruffly brush you off, know that they’ve heard it deep down,’ adds Eve Menezes Cunningham, a counsellor and coach. ‘Don’t force anything, obviously, but little acknowledgements matter. Listening to their stories can be an expression of love. Make the most of the time you spend together without embarrassing them by making a big deal about it.’ selfcarecoaching.net