Caring for a senior loved one can be complicated, and it could lead to disagreements among family members. You and your brothers and sisters need to come together to create the proper care plan for your parent and stay committed to your duties. Below are a few tips that can help siblings handle conflicts when caring for a loved one.
Find the Core Issue
Many arguments are trivial, and siblings often fail to get to the root of the problem. For example, your brothers and sisters could be experiencing financial stress due to caring for your loved one. The hours they dedicate to your parent’s care could prevent them from working jobs to supplement their monthly incomes. When you find out what’s causing the conflict, you have a better chance of solving the problem and moving forward. Look into financial resources and government grants and programs your loved one can qualify for, which could reduce financial stress for your parent as well as you and your siblings.
Explain the Caregiving Duties Thoroughly
Some siblings take on multiple responsibilities, such as cleaning around the home and picking up prescriptions from the local pharmacy. However, a caregiver who handles a more significant duty may only have one role. Explain to your siblings why one person handles more tasks compared to others. For example, if you’re responsible for bathing your loved one and providing medication reminders, go over how complex these tasks are compared to preparing meals or doing laundry. When your siblings understand how responsibilities are divided, many conflicts may be avoidable.
Family members can easily become overwhelmed by their caregiving duties, and a professional home caregiver can be a wonderful addition to your caregiving team. One of the most challenging tasks of helping an elderly relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide home care Danville. Turn to Assisting Hands Home Care for reliable, high-quality in-home care for aging adults. We offer 24-hour care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties.
Be Open & Honest
Your brothers and sisters should be able to speak openly about anything going on in their lives, especially situations related to caregiving. When your siblings keep these emotions bottled inside, it could lead to disagreements. Set up group texts and have daily or weekly video chats where everyone can voice their opinions and vent. After listening to everyone’s issues and feedback, decide how to move forward as a team. Make sure your parent isn’t nearby when these conversations are taking place so he or she doesn’t feel guilty or embarrassed about relying on you and your siblings for care.
Families who find it difficult to care for their aging loved ones without assistance can benefit greatly from professional respite care. Danville, CA, family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties can turn to Assisting Hands Home Care. Our caregivers can encourage your loved one to eat well, exercise regularly, get plenty of mental and social stimulation, and focus on other lifestyle factors that promote longevity.
Use Professional Caregiving Services
When creating a suitable care plan for your parent, ask your siblings to share what they can do to help and what makes them uncomfortable. If these limits interfere with your loved one’s daily needs and safety, it may be best to use professional home care services. A trained and skilled individual can come into the home and provide high-quality care to your loved one. Remember that saying no is okay, and setting limitations often reduces sibling conflicts when it comes to caregiving. Your siblings may feel relieved knowing their limits are validated and that someone can step in to help.
Many conflicts over caregiving responsibilities can be resolved by hiring a professional caregiver for your loved one. Although it may be challenging to find reliable, highly rated in-home care, Danville, CA, families can turn to Assisting Hands Home Care. Our caregivers are expertly trained to assist seniors with a wide array of important tasks, including cooking, bathing, light housekeeping, and exercise. If your loved one needs help with the challenges of aging, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (925) 332-1276.
