It seems to me that if you have always known that they pray for you, you could simply continue doing what you always did, which is to ignore it. Have you had any serious discussions with them about your non-belief? This might be a good time for that, if and only if you want to.

For clarity, I am fine with my parents and consider myself lucky. They’ve never forced religion on me. I was just expressing my frustration at this small interaction and appreciating how much more many of you have endured. As I said above, I appreciate his concern.

Do what makes you feel comfortable.

Just like funerals are more for those who survive than actually for the person who died, "thoughts and prayers" are more for those who are unable to actually do anything of real consequence as a way to make them feel better, even it it does nothing for the injured or sick person.

Someone on this site, I forget who, said "Thought nd prayers are like masturbation. It makes the person doing it feel better, but does absolutely nothing for the person they are thinking about."

Maybe your parents just want you to get well. You don't believe in their methods - but the intention is honourable.

Ok !