To feel frustrated with my elderly parents

[AquaFaba]

I really am so annoyed and frustrated with them.
We don’t have the best of relationships admittedly, but I just feel so, so frustrated with their approach to coronavirus.

My Mum and I haven’t spoken since last week when we had an argument about this. She/they have refused all offers of help. I have no idea what they are doing for food, and how they are keeping.

My Dad (aged 71) still technically works, he is self employed, my Mum is retired.

We live about 1.5hours away from them, so not easy to get to them in person to deliver shopping or collect prescriptions (if needed), but we would gladly do that.

I don’t want to treat them like children, and really don’t think I am, but - without going into much detail - I’m mindful that they have a chaotic approach to life, and often won’t ask for help until the poo has hit the fan, by which time it’s more difficult to offer logical help.

I think I’m frustrated because this feels like a continuation of that approach, but also far more selfish and irresponsible as it’s harder to pick up the pieces now that I have my own family to look after.

71 although in the higher risk category but it is not elderly. Do they have underlying conditions that means that you think they will need more assistance

Why do you think a 71 year old wouldn't be able to buy their own food? If they are normally healthy, why would they need intervention at this stage?

It's frustrating trying to get through to the old 'uns here.

My dad, who has COPD and heart problems, keeps looking out of the window and saying "see, they're out, what's the problem?" every time he sees someone.

Try telling my Grandad and he goes on a long rant about the war 🤦‍♀️

Old 'uns? The OP is talking about a 71 year old who is fit enough to work.

Yes, they should be careful etc. but they don't need their shopping doing for them just yet! The OP says "I have no idea what they are doing for food", which makes it sound like a big drama, but I think it's reasonable to assume they are going to the shop and buying it like everyone else.

Sounds a doddle compared to my 89 year old gran who WILL NOT STAY IN. Seriously starting to lose my shit tbh.

Um they are not elderly. Can't say anymore as I'm lost for words.

Trust me @1FootInTheRave I also have an 89 year old grandmother who won’t stay in either.

Ok, so what I’m getting from all the above is that I will just leave them to it, see how they get on and assume they will be ok.

@Aquafab. My parents and in laws are early seventies and not leaving the house/garden. No major underlying conditions but, fit as they are for seventy somethings and young as they feel, they understand the outlook for someone their age who catches the virus.

It's just not worth it.

@AquaFaba sorry