Unable to Continue the Caregiving Role? Talk to Your Aging Parent

Being a family caregiver can be a demanding role and one that many people are unable to do. With the list of things the elder needs care for to your own family responsibilities, you may not have the time or resources to provide the care the senior needs.

Neither you nor the elder will benefit by continuing to care for them when you are unable to do so. One option would be to hire professional caregivers, who will give your loved one the time and attention they need. If this is the option you would like to use for your aging parent, here are some tips for letting them know that you will no longer be there primary caregiver.

Discuss Your Emotions

It might be difficult for the senior to hear, but it is important you are brutally honest about the toll caregiving is taking on your emotional health. After days or weeks of bathing, feeding, and grooming your elderly loved one, along with other tasks you needed to take care of, you may feel a combination of anger, frustration, sadness, and resentment. These feelings could cause your own health to deteriorate. The elder may be disappointed or upset that you will not be caring for them anymore, but will be at ease knowing you were honest with them.

Inform the Elder of Other Family Responsibilities

Caring for an elderly loved one can be a full-time job that can easily take time away from your own children and spouse. When your own family is taking a backseat to the elder, it is time to consider finding other care options for the elder, such as an elderly care professional. Instead of trying to spread yourself too thin between the senior and your family, talk about your dilemma with the elder. Let them know that you feel as if you have neglected your own family and you need to refocus your time and energy on them. Your parent once had to care for a small child or children, too, so they should understand why you need to spend time with them.

Talk about Financial Issues

Although you would probably care for your loved one for free, the bills still need to be paid. A majority of family caregivers in the United States are unpaid, yet have to contribute some of their own money to the care of the elder. They do not want to cause you and your family financial problems and will most likely understand your reasons for not being able to care for them.

Having this talk with an aging parent is a tough conversation to have, but one that is needed. These 3 topics will help you start the conversation and help them find an in-home care aid who can give them the help they need.

If you or an aging loved one are considering caregiver services on the Main Line, contact the caring professionals at Reliant At Home Care today (610) 674-6860.