I want to help my father and boost his ego

Father - upset - Retirement Syndrome
@brisk123 (2823)
India
August 12, 2008 9:08am CST
Hi recently,my dad he got his retirement from his job.All his life,he worked in government service.He was dedicated,sincere and honest worker.He is now at home.He is finding very difficult to cope up with his retirement syndrome.He is getting so upset,irritated day by day.Even small things can trigger his emotions.He thinks he is worthless now,we are trying hard to make him feel better and take things positively,but not successful so far.Could you please suggest,what I should be doing to cheer him up and make him see things positively?
4 responses
@Wizzywig (7847)
12 Aug 08
Make sure he knows how much you and your family value his input. You could try asking him to help with something you are doing - does he have practical skills like DIY or motor maintenance. Or maybe he could help you with planning an event or holiday. Perhaps he could undertake some voluntary work or find a part-time position somewhere. Is there perhaps some community project he could initiate - I'm guessing he probably has skills which would be very useful? Its very hard for people who have worked all their lives to not have an obligation to get out of bed in the morning. Your dad is fortunate in that he has someone who cares so much about him. Best wishes to both of you
@brisk123 (2823)
• India
12 Aug 08
Thank you my dear friend,we are planning to start small business and wanted him to be a part of it,but he thinks he cannot do this,we are trying hard to change his negative attitude towards business.
@Wizzywig (7847)
12 Aug 08
I really hope this all works out well for your whole family. Hopefully he will see that you really need his help and experience and that he will be investing his time for your future. I'm sure you will be asking for his advice (even when you are pretty sure of what needs to be done) My dad had to take early retirement through ill-health but, after a difficult year or so, he became so busy walking, raising funds for charity, caring for other sick relatives etc etc that he came to appreciate the variety and not having to go to work.
@balasri (26537)
• India
14 Aug 08
Well he must be a man of experience and wisdom as he has retired from a responsible job.This syndrome is a common one. Only the feeling that everyone cares for him and his guidance will make him alright.Just seek his advice and consult for even the trivial things.This will make him feel important.Always tell him that what he said right. Give rapt attendance to his speech.He will gain his confidence and become normal. It is the cycle.Old men becoming babies again.We have to understand because we too are going to go through this cycle one day.
@intimate36 (1415)
• Pakistan
13 Aug 08
Let me know , how old is he...what are his interest and how is his health...You can only decide , how can you keep him busy after knowing all this. Once he is busy... every thing will be all right...
• China
14 Aug 08
Don't worry my friend. You can tell your father that he is very important to your family and plays a crucial role in society, Then you can help him to find another job according to his hobbies! Good luck to him!