Do you have a parent who turns every conversation into a discussion of her medical problems?

[Anonymous]

I say "her" because both my mother and my MIL do this and I find it tiresome and also weird. I have medical issues which I never discuss because they are private (and my mother is a blabbermouth). My MIL even reports on routine exams ("at the mammogram the tech twisted my nipple"). How do you deal? What conversational tactics do you use to redirect?

[Anonymous]

No, but I would just be happy to still have parents.

[Anonymous]

Yes, but she tends to over share about everything. Some people just don't understand boundaries.

[Anonymous]

Yes. I just let her talk, don't pay attention, and make periodic sympathetic noises.

[Anonymous]

My MIL. Can't get a word in.

[Anonymous]

Yep. I allot a small period of time for the conversation and then cut it off. I also keep my phone with me (talk on the land line) and play games.

[Anonymous]

Thought this was common among older folks. That, their aches and pains, doctor appointments and healthy lifestyle, exercise and eating.

[Anonymous]

Maybe you could be more empathetic and listen to her. She birthed and raised you..that's the least you can do.

[Anonymous]

I work in the medical arena so I actually like talking to people about medicine. It's something that causes people worry. Anxiety can be relieved by talking about it.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I work in the medical arena so I actually like talking to people about medicine. It's something that causes people worry. Anxiety can be relieved by talking about it.

Agree but I know someone who was born with a debilitating condition and her parents taught her not to discuss it with others. Think they did that so she would be included as much as possible and not made an outcast because of her condition or because she talked too much about it.

[Anonymous]

Sounds like she needs counseling or a senior support group. Try Iona House: http://www.iona.org/how-we-help/counseling-support-groups.html

[Anonymous]

Count your blessings. My mom only wants to complain about my dad and siblings. If that doesn't bother you, you could redirect her to family complaints.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I work in the medical arena so I actually like talking to people about medicine. It's something that causes people worry. Anxiety can be relieved by talking about it.

Agree but I know someone who was born with a debilitating condition and her parents taught her not to discuss it with others. Think they did that so she would be included as much as possible and not made an outcast because of her condition or because she talked too much about it.

That's too bad. It's all a matter of context. I would never engage in a personal medical conversation at work, but close friends or family are fine.

[Anonymous]

Yes my MIL did this for the entire 12 years I knew her. Then she died of cancer. RIP

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:No, but I would just be happy to still have parents.

It was inevitable that your type would show up. Go away if you don't have anything to add.