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The Global Insight

How do I convince my elderly parents to move closer?

Author

John Hall

Updated on March 07, 2026

You can try to convince your elderly parents to move closer by communicating your concerns first. Then, since many parents worry about being a burden on their children, show them that they have a place in your life. Lastly, if they refuse, prepare yourself to return to the conversation at a later date.

Can you be forced to take care of elderly parent?

In the U.S., requiring that children care for their elderly parents is a state by state issue. Other states don’t require an obligation from the children of older adults. Currently, 27 states have filial responsibility laws.

Should your aging parent move in with you?

For some aging parents, the right move is into their adult child’s home. Multigenerational living can be a marvelous bonding experience, a chance for you to know your parent in a new way. It helps your aging parent avoid the sense of isolation and depression that may come with living alone.

How do you set boundaries with elderly difficult parents?

Setting Boundaries with Aging Parents

  1. Figure out what keeps you hooked.
  2. Ask yourself what saying no means.
  3. Determine if the request is something you, and only you, can fulfill.
  4. Sit down and discuss with your parents what you can do and what you can’t (or won’t) do.

Is it wrong to move away from elderly parents?

Ultimately, it is wrong to move away from elderly parents. Extenuating circumstances or personal aspirations might seem to necessitate it, but moving far away from aging parents has more long-lasting problems for both you and them, making the trade-off not worth it.

Why does my elderly mother drive me crazy?

If your aging parents are driving you crazy because they are forgetting things or making bad judgment calls, get the family doctor involved. Often times, family members notice memory issues only after they get so bad that they cannot be ignored.

What is a toxic mom?

“Toxic parent” is an umbrella term for parents who display some or all of the following characteristics: Self-centered behaviors. Your parent may be emotionally unavailable, narcissistic, or perhaps uncaring when it comes to things that you need.

What should you not say to an elderly parent?

7 Things You Should Never Say to Your Aging Parents

  • “You always tell me the same story!”
  • “You need to use a cane/walker!”
  • “You never feel good.”
  • “You shouldn’t live alone anymore.”
  • “You’re too old to drive.”
  • “I can’t believe you missed that appointment.”
  • “You don’t need a jacket today; it’s warm outside.”

When did my parents move in with US?

When we built our home 11 years ago, my husband and I were committed to having my parents—then in their mid-seventies—come to live with us. We built them an in-law apartment that is nearly 1,000 square feet, with a kitchen and laundry facilities.

How big of an apartment did my parents move into?

We built them an in-law apartment that is nearly 1,000 square feet, with a kitchen and laundry facilities. My mom and dad were fully independent at the time, but my husband and I felt it was better to be prepared for their decline and avoid scrambling if a crisis arose.

What happens to my parents when they get older?

The sudden death of my brother, who was just 50 years old, has sped up their aging and brought on some depression, particularly in my father. Although Dad jogged regularly up until a couple years ago, he no longer even takes walks.

When do caregivers need to be able to change plans?

Caregivers need to be able to change plans at the drop of a hat. For example, my husband and I decided it would be fun to throw a party for our 35th wedding anniversary, but unexpected complications from Dad’s minor surgery meant we had to cancel the celebration at the last minute. This turn of events reminded me of my days raising young children.