Experiencing Changes in Those Around You

I have noticed that many older adults often have difficulty with accepting changes in others; this seems to be especially true when this is a spouse. Fortunately, and unfortunately(?) (depends on how you look at it), not everyone ages at the same rate. Being able to ACCEPT and ADAPT to later life's mental, physical, and emotional changes in your loved ones can be quite a challenge for many, and often tests the patience of even those who have been the most tolerant and understanding.

Here's where the "for better or worse" comes into a marriage in full force. Can you still love your spouse even if he or she has a stroke, develop Alzheimer's disease, loss eyesight, or can't hear any more? Can you be accepting and forgive him or her for shortcomings? Again, be as flexible and adaptable as possible and realize that if the reverse was true - you were the one with this or that problem - you would want your loved ones to be accepting and understanding of you, even in your changed state.

How do you cope with these changes with your loved one? Respond with your thoughts.