The Same Question, Again

My parent [Initials] asks me the same question many times a day: [The Question They Repeat]. What upsets them most is: [What Upsets Them Most]. Help me: 1) understand what the question is probably really asking for — reassurance, orientation, control, or company, 2) give me three short answers I can repeat calmly the tenth time as easily as the first, 3) tell me what not to say, including why correcting or reminding them that they already asked usually makes it worse, 4) suggest one change to the room, the day, or a written note that could reduce how often the question comes up, 5) give me one sentence to say to myself when my patience is gone. Warm, plain language. Do not diagnose anything.