Today we visited both of my parents and my father-in-law. Having spent most of our lives, to some degree, being looked after by our parents, we are now at the stage where we are the ones who worry about them.

The mind is so powerful that it can make you a prisoner in your own home, cutting yourself off from family and friends. There are people I know of (friends of family/friends) who are currently going through this, and there are no easy solutions. All you can do is offer support and let the person know that you are there for them when they are ready for it. Over the past year, my mum has emerged from a difficult period of her life; it brings me joy to see her happy and making the most of life again.

My dad is now at a stage in life where he has become socially isolated. We are trying to see him more, so that potential feelings of loneliness will hopefully be reduced as much as possible. This is something that affects millions of elderly people, which is an issue I’m trying to be more mindful of.

In a role reversal, Dad now needs telling off for making foolish, dangerous decisions. This morning, he told us that he had spent a couple of hours trimming his conifer. This involved propping up a ladder against the tree, which wobbled as he climbed it… whilst holding pruners in one hand and a saw in the other!! Hopefully, he will start listening to me and leave the risky chores for when I visit.

We had Sunday dinner with my father-in-law, who enjoyed our company and a home-cooked meal. Today my sister-in-law made a lovely roast, and, as always, accommodated the awkward vegan (me)!

Whenever I get a little frustrated by so much of our weekends being taken up by family visits, I remind myself that it’s the least we can do to repay the years of kindness they have shown us. Plus, we do love spending time with them.