Experts discuss repairing family rifts as parents age

As parents grow older, some hope to mend strained relationships with their adult children, but experts say this process requires more than just good intentions. Gerontologist Sam Cradduck told Live 5 WCSC that repairing family conflicts involves ownership, patience, and realistic expectations, noting that forgiveness requires one person but relationships need mutual effort.

Cradduck explained that many long-standing family disputes have lost their original cause, with individuals remaining angry without recalling why. She advised parents who may have caused pain to take responsibility and apologize sincerely, but also acknowledged that if the other party is unwilling to accept the apology, the parent has done their part.

Dr. Rhea Rogers, a board-certified physician, emphasized that time alone does not heal emotional wounds. She outlined that a genuine apology must acknowledge harm, offer no excuses, and include changed behavior. Rogers highlighted that healing occurs on the injured person's timeline, while reconciliation involves rebuilding trust.

Aging expert Amy O’Rourke shared examples from her consultations illustrating how resentment can persist for years, underscoring the complexity of family reconciliation as parents age. These insights were shared to help local families in Charleston navigate the challenges of repairing old wounds.