His Mother Comes to Visit Without a Head Covering
Question
Hello,A baal teshuva whose mother who is divorced, comes to visit his family and children, without a head covering, in worn-out clothing, and with neglected hair. Her appearance is very unkempt. She has purchased a wig but chooses not to wear it.Can he gently hint to her to wear the wig and dress more modestly, even though he knows she doesn't want to do so?On the one hand, there is the mitzvah of honoring one’s parents; on the other hand, I am concerned about her influence on the grandchildren. His wife is uncomfortable with the situation and may want to reduce how often the family meets with her because of it. Additionally, appearing immodestly in public may cause 'others to stumble', and could also embarrass the grandchildren.
Answer
Shalom rav,
According to the Hora'ah given by Harav Amrom Fried, shlita, it is permissible to respectably tell the mother to come with a head covering.
Source
Shulchan Aruch, Yoreh De'ah, Siman 240