Common Problems with Caring for an Aging Parent
Caring for an aging loved one, especially a parent or grandparent can make for a stressful situation where the dynamics of that relationship are strained. When your aging loved one’s needs become great enough you are essentially becoming a home care provider which is a real job, not just “helping out.” As a caregiver you may experience stress, guilt and anxiety as a result of this extra work making your time with your loved one more frustrating and strained than it should be.
The relationship between you and your aging relative is often made worse because you, as the caregiver, see this person struggling and will assume you know what’s best to keep them healthy and safe. However, the person you are caring for has likely been an independent adult for many, many years and they will resent having freedoms taken away from them.
Keeping your relationship intact should be a priority and the trick is balancing “want” and “need.” Your aging loved one wants to remain independent, but you need them to stay safe. Having an honest and frank discussion about what each of you both needs and wants is very important. Take doctor’s recommendations into account and, when in doubt, defer to your loved one’s wishes. Stifling them from doing things they can do on their own will only make them feel unheard and argumentative. It could possibly even risk their health more as they may use their own abilities and skills less and become more weakened and depressed.
Hiring family care providers can be a good way to get your family member the care they need while giving you peace of mind. Comfort Keepers of Santa Clarita’s home care workers are specially trained to treat patients with compassion and provide care that takes into account each person’s wishes. Visit our website today to find out what we can do alleviate your stress as a caregiver and give your loved one a better quality of life.
Comfort Keepers
23900 Lyons Avenue
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
661-287-4200
