It is normal for adults to be concerned about their aging parents.If you're worried about your parents' eating habits, approach the topic gently.Rather than accusing or blaming them, be helpful.Share how their habits affect your life and what you would like to see changed.Help them to live a healthy lifestyle.
Step 1: Be courteous.
Treat your parents with respect.Don't make demands of them even if they have bad eating habits or follow diet trends.Share your concerns in a way that doesn't offend them.If you are concerned about their weight, ask for permission to bring it up.Treat them like adults.You should respect what they choose, even if you don't like their decisions.Don't force your opinions on anyone.If someone wants to change their habits, they will do it on their own.
Step 2: I statements can be used.
They may become defensive and not listen to you if you tell them all the things you think they do wrong.Talk about how their behavior affects you and how you feel about it.They might not know how their choices affect you and your family.Don't accuse them and keep the focus on you.I am concerned about you because you have started losing weight.It makes me sad to think of you not eating well or taking care of yourself.
Step 3: Let your love be known.
Talk about your concern and love for your parents.If you want them to be in your life, frame your concerns around your love for them.If you feel that their eating habits are threatening their life or longevity, say so in a loving way.I want you to be a part of my life and my children's lives for a long time.I don't want that to happen, and the thought of your eating habits taking you earlier than necessary hurts me.I want to keep you in my life as long as possible.
Step 4: Don't shame them.
Don't be judgmental in your speech when discussing your parent's diet.You want them to make healthy choices, but don't make them feel guilty.If your parents are overweight, don't blame them, as they are probably aware that they're overweight and embarrassed about it.Keep your discussion positive and constructive.Mention what they are doing right as well.It is possible to start the conversation on a positive note.They can be praised for choosing to eat a lot of vegetables while addressing their eating of processed foods.
Step 5: You should be non-confrontational.
Don't lecture and give relevant information.It is important for parents to think about their diet and nutrition before making changes.Don't talk about their behaviors until they are open to hearing alternatives.Ask their thoughts about what you read in the news about health, diet, and nutrition.
Step 6: Specific concerns should be shared.
If you think your parents are prepared to listen to you, talk about your concerns.Don't use generalizations like, "You always eat fast food" or "I never see you eating healthy"It seems to affect your mood and costs a lot.
Step 7: There is some education on the subject of diet.
Your parents may not be aware of how bad their diet is.They can get some credible education materials, such as diet guidelines from medical professionals.Try to back up your concerns with some data.
Step 8: Ask how you can help.
If you want to help your parents, ask how you can.This can show that you want to help them, not just criticize them or tell them what to do.They can make requests and say what they need.They may be struggling with something that affects their behavior and eating habits.I want to help you be healthy because your diet concerns me.What help do you need?Is there anything I can do to help my parents?If they are struggling to live on their own, consider assisted living or hiring outside help.
Step 9: Small goals are set.
Instead of making big demands, make small requests of your parents.Habit changes with small steps.If you want your parents to cut down on fast food, ask them to eat out less.Encourage them to eat dinner with you.When your parents meet small goals, they may be more willing to make larger changes over time.
Step 10: Discuss fad diet.
Fad diets often don't encourage healthy weight loss.Talk to your parents about the dangers of using a fad diet.Some diet plans restrict calories so they end up consuming more calories than they would have otherwise.Say why you are worried about their diet and give some suggestions.Encourage them to lose weight safely.
Step 11: You should lead by example.
Let your actions speak louder if you don't know what to say.If you need some time to figure out what to say and how to avoid being judgmental, model good eating.You can invite your parents for a healthy meal.Drop off a bag of groceries or bring food that is good for you.
Step 12: Regular medical care should be encouraged.
If you want your parents to stay on top of their medical care, have them schedule regular medical exams.If your parents lose weight too quickly or change their eating habits, have them talk to a doctor.Maintaining a healthy diet is even more important if they are on medication.You can help your parents schedule appointments.Older adults are more likely to listen to medical advice than their children.You may want to refer your concerns to a doctor.
Step 13: They should cook together.
To help your parents maintain a healthy diet, invite them over to eat with you or offer to cook with them.If they are hesitant to make changes on their own, give them some assistance.If they struggle to prepare healthy meals or have go-to options, bring over some food and teach them how to cook it.It can help people understand healthy meals.Show your parents how to cook on their own.
Step 14: Purchase groceries.
Encourage your parents to eat healthy.You can give them groceries that are healthy and easy to prepare.You could drop off some recipes to go with the food.Pack some food for your parents.Try a healthier version of their favorite food.If they like hamburgers, have them try vegetarian options.