DEAR ABBY: I'm the manager of a medium-sized apartment building with several older tenants. As these tenants get older, their needs become greater. When it's time for the children and family to step in, not ALL do. Some think -- and have actually told me -- that giving the manager $20 at Christmas will ensure that Mom/Dad gets to the grocery store, bank and doctor, and the bills are paid all year.
Abby, this is not my family, and I do not feel obligated to take them to run their errands. Their children then tell me, "What am I supposed to do? I don't have time," etc., and I reply that it's their responsibility, not mine.
Is there a legal means to make them take care of their own? Threatening to have them charged with elder abuse doesn't always work. -- NOT A DAY CARE OR RETIREMENT HOME
DEAR NOT A DAY CARE: If you're feeling charitable, make a list of various resources for seniors in your community and offer the information to the "children." Further, neglecting a vulnerable, elderly parent is considered elder abuse, and if that's what's going on, you shouldn't "threaten." You should report it to your county adult protective services office.