Today’s dreaded conversation isn’t about sex the way it was when you were a lot younger. This conversation is about parents sharing with you, their adult children, what you need to know to help them as they age.
A survey conducted by Home Instead Senior Care coined a name for this very important conversation – the 40-70 Rule. It means that children who have reached age 40 or whose parents are 70 need to start discussions about what expectations and responsibilities each will need regarding living arrangements, driving habits, health concerns and financial matters.
Surprisingly, the survey showed that death doesn't seem to be the taboo subject as much as end-of-life wishes and a parent's legacy. The most difficult discussions centered on personal hygiene and health habits, inappropriate or embarrassing behaviour, and the right time to withdraw driving privileges.
The good news from the survey is that talking about a parent's romantic life or sexual behaviour ranked dead last on the survey. Only one-third of boomers indicated any degree of discomfort with the subject. The sexual liberation they grew up is finally paying off for their parents.
For the record, I think you can’t afford to postpone this conversation until ‘the right time’. You might find out they were worried about how to approach you. My book gives clear guidelines about how to begin the conversations for parents and children.
There is no right time. There is only in time.
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