By Dr. Marion Somers, Ph. D., Ask Dr. Marion

QUESTION: I know my mother has many unmet wishes, but I need help about how to broach the subject with her. Thank you, Doctor Marion. Zora in Washington, D.C.

ANSWER: Hi Zora,

Sometimes an older person reaches a stage where he or she realizes they haven't completed everything they wanted to do in life. Having the opportunity to express these wishes often corrects this problem, so offer your ear. Some small things like attending live theater or a professional baseball game or getting your ears pierced can easily be accomplished in most metropolitan areas. Larger dreams like climbing Machu Pichu or swimming with dolphins in Hawaii might also be attainable. Unmet desires often have a negative affect and can lower your elder's quality of life. Help meet the desire, and satisfaction will abound for both you and your elder.

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