They live near me and I see them a couple of times a week, I take DM shopping once a week. They're both 81.
DM wants to chat on the phone every day. She complains that I never ring her; I do, but usually she rings me first. She would like to go out more, she says she knows she could get a bus but she can't be bothered (DD doesn't really drive much any more), and then says to me "but I hate relying on you"
DF is getting sort of doddery and forgetful, and has health problems meaning I have to take him to appointments and help sort out his tablets etc. Also he can't do much around the house, so I get phone calls to go and change lightbulbs, read any 'legal' mail, make official phone calls etc.
They both smoke and if we spend any time at their house all our clothes stink which I admit makes me reluctant to go over there much.
I work in the community and have just visited a nursing home. It suddenly struck me that half the people in there are my DP's age, and they are stuck there, relying totally on other people for any trips out, for any companionship. So many of them said things like "Oh yes my son visited last month, it was lovely, he's coming again before Christmas." It was heartbreaking. They only see family once every couple of months and are so grateful for it.
My DP are still active, in their own home, and mentally sound. I need to make the most of that, because it won't last for ever, and I don't want to ever look back and say "I wish I'd spent more time with them."
Just that, really.