Baby boomers can often play the role of juggler, balancing many roles. It is not uncommon for some to manage not only their own health and well-being but that of their elderly parents. In addition, they are also trying to establish a healthy relationship with their own adult children; and if you throw in the transition into retirement, issues of financial strain, and the decision whether to continue working you have added stressors. A baby boomer may also have to consider medical procedures at the same time their elderly parent has their own health issues. All of these decisions and roles can add to already difficult issues.
My job as a therapist to the baby boomer population is to assist them in adjusting to life as an older adult in today’s world. In addition, I hope to be able to help them understand and confront the juggling act of their many roles. I specialize in helping this population transition into retirement, manage their expectations of their own adult children, and care for an elderly parent.
Some helpful tips:
- Talk with your parents about end of life care while they are still healthy, because without their input you can add additional burdens to yourself and your family. These conversations could include topics such as medical treatment, personal care, and information they want loved ones to know.
- Discuss expectations of communication with adult children: Baby boomers should know that loneliness is a common problem. They want to be reassured that their adult children have not forgotten them; their adult children should know their parents’ concern and expectation for regular communication.
- Leading up to retirement find a hobby or a volunteer opportunity and get involved. This way when retirement comes there is less isolation and more opportunity to socialize. Often times when a person retires they lose their daily routine and sense of purpose. It is important to set new goals and develop a new routine so that isolation and loss of interest don’t set in, preventing depression and anxiety.
These tips are meant to help the older adult age with dignity, and you, their children, can be a helpful agent in this process. For more information or to schedule an appointment for you or a loved one, please contact Elana R. Marcus at 267-571-5474 or elana.ignite@gmail.com.
Elana is a graduate of the Bryn Mawr Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research. She is a gifted psychotherapist who has been practicing in the Philadelphia and surrounding areas for many years.
Elana has worked with individuals of all ages who have struggled with a variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, family and relationship issues. She is able to offer coping skills, assertiveness and social skills training, and ways to boost confidence and self-esteem. She also has experience providing clients with education and tools on sleep hygiene, smoking cessation, and diabetes management (along with other chronic diseases).
Elana has consulted directly with primary care providers on how to better manage the mental health and well-being of shared patients.
Elana is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a telehealth private practice called Ignite Change. She is currently licensed in Pennsylvania but is in the process of also obtaining her New Jersey Clinical Social Work License.
Email Elana at elana.ignite@gmail.com
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