When it comes to caring for aging parents, conflicts with siblings can make things more difficult than they have to be. Inevitably, this can add to your burden when it feels like one or more siblings are not contributing, and this can even cause old sibling rivalries to flare up. In order to avoid this and work together to care for aging parents with siblings, follow the top tips in this article.
Make Your Expectations Clear
One mistake many people fall prey to is that you shouldn’t have to ask for help. Somehow, your siblings are supposed to know automatically what you require and provide it. Unfortunately, things don’t always work this way, and if your sibling has never been a primary caregiver, chances are they simply don’t know how tiring and time-consuming it can be.
When asking for help from your siblings, always make your expectations clear and specific. For instance, ask if they can drop by after dinner two days a week to allow you to go grocery shopping and take some time for yourself.
Be Realistic
The truth is, it’s incredibly hard to allocate tasks fairly. If your brother doesn’t see eye to eye with your dad and is likely to get into an argument with him, it’s best to avoid leaving them alone together for too long. Instead, ask your brother if he can help with researching long-term care options, communicating with insurance providers, and other tasks that will not agitate both your siblings and aging parent(s).
Avoid Making Your Siblings Feel Guilty
Caring for an aging parent can get tiring, especially if you are the primary caregiver. However, getting angry and making your siblings feel guilty for not doing more isn’t going to help anyone. In fact, it can even make them resentful and more unwilling to render help. This can turn into a vicious cycle where you are not getting the support you need.
Always try to remain polite when asking your siblings for help, and remember that your end goal is to make a decision in the best interests of everyone, including your parent(s).
Senior Assisted Living at Morada Quintessence Can Improve the Quality of Life for Your Loved One
Does your aging parent require additional assistance with day-to-day activities which you are unable to provide? If so, our senior assisted living program at Morada Quintessence is exactly what you are looking for. With 24-hour care, concierge services, chef-prepared meals and so much more at their doorsteps, you can be assured that your loved ones will have plenty to occupy their days with while receiving the care they need. Our wide range of stylish amenities includes a well-stocked library, a multifunctional games room, an arts and crafts studio, lush outdoor spaces, and more.
Please feel free to schedule a tour of our campus today, where you can discover what we have to offer for you.
