I recently had a conversation with someone who is the sole caretaker for her 95-year-old mother, and we had an a-ha moment (and a few good laughs) about how amazingly similar her situation is to my life as a mom caring for my small children. The sad truth is that the differences are stark and profound; in children, these things are about growth and potential, and in aging, these things are about loss and decline, but it's a good reflection on the amazing circle of life. And to be honest, comparing the two generations was a wonderful reminder to do my best by my children and my elders by always practicing patience and unending love with both of them. Plus, as they always say, "parents be kind to your children, it is they who will be choosing your nursing home one day." So if you've ever cared for a small child or an elderly person, I think you'll relate to a few of their similarities (and fall in love with these touching images).
Source: Flickr user Gustavo Devito [1]
They Have a Hard Time Keeping Track of Things
Have you seen my _____? Can you help me find my _____?
Source: Flickr user Loren Kerns [2]
They Love to Play Games
Give 'em a game, and they're happy campers.
Source: Flickr user Poul-Werner Dam [3]
You're Worried About Them Falling
A spill for either could be a big problem.
Source: Flickr user Quinn Dombrowski [4]
Lists/Charts Keep Them Organized
And feeling in control.
Source: Flickr user Gustavo Devito [5]
They're Both Picky Eaters
The phrase "just try it, you might like it" is frequently used.
Source: Flickr user docmonstereyes [6]
They Fall Asleep Anywhere
In church. In the car. On the couch after watching TV for two minutes.
Source: Flickr user Isabelle Plante [7]
When They Need to Go Potty, They Need to Go Potty
Like now!
Source: Flickr user Brandon O'Connor [8]
Anything Is Cause For Celebration
Birthdays, holidays, milestones. You name it, it's getting celebrated.
Source: Flickr user Matthew Juzenas [9]
Potty Talk Is Standard Conversation
Did you poop? Was it soft or hard? Can I see it?
Source: Flickr user Julie, Dave & Family [10]
They're Both Stubborn
No, they're not tired. They'll go to bed when they want to go to bed, thanks.
Source: Flickr user Ryan Poplin [11]
Crafts Keep Them Busy
Give them a craft, and they're perfectly content for a little while.
Source: Flickr user John Markos O'Neill [12]
They Blow You Away With Their Knowledge
They're both way smarter than anyone gives them credit for.
Source: Flickr user Eric Ward [13]
Neither Can Fly Alone
Talk about coming full circle.
Source: Flickr user Quinn Dombrowski [14]
Their Clothing Choices Can Be Questionable
Are you sure you want to wear that? Are you going to be warm enough? Why don't you grab a sweater?
Source: Flickr user normanack [15]
Stories Are Told on Repeat
Both age groups love to tell you the same sweet stories, over and over again.
Source: Flickr user Lyle Vincent [16]
Errands Take a Little Longer
Long gone are the days of just running into the store to grab something real quick.
Source: Flickr user Carissa Rogers [17]
You Worry About Them Getting Sick
Many a sleepless night is spent worrying over possible sicknesses or ailments.
Source: Flickr user U.S. Army [18]
They Need Your Help (a Lot)
They need quite a bit of your assistance during the day, and while it can be very trying at times, you wouldn't have it any other way.
Source: Flickr user Michael Johnson [19]