Dad loses his keys, and this is how it begins

By Diane Dennis

Lifestyles Northwest, Apr 30, 2007, Updated Oct 30, 2009

Diane Dennis is a life transition coach appearing monthly on television’s “AM Northwest.” Contact her for seminars, coaching or workshops on transitions at www.lifetransitionguide.com or call 503-972-3441.

Dad keeps losing his car keys,” Judy told her brother Jim, exasperated. “Well, maybe he shouldn’t be driving anyway, so why don’t you tell him?” he replied.

As the boomer generation faces physical, emotional or psychological changes with their aging parents, this emotional quagmire is a set-up for colossal family bickering or estrangement between parent and child, so it is important to take the right steps.

I know this up-close and personal. Running up the steps to my dad’s apartment one day, I heard my name and turned to see an old acquaintance smiling in my direction from across the lawn. We both simultaneously asked, “What are you doing here?”

My answer raised his brow in surprise as he explained that he is the apartment manager, and who is my dad, by the way? As soon as I mentioned his name, my old friend started to laugh, and I was immediately mortified. What has he done now, I wondered, while my face turned red and I broke out in a cold sweat.

“Your dad is the naked man?” he asked, doubling over in laughter.

Uh, oh. Here we go.

In the apartment I was ready for an explanation and put on my best “you’re in for it now” face.

“Dad, why are you called the naked man?” I asked, expecting a denial or at least a rebuttal. Instead he broke out in a wide grin.

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