Whether your family is large or small, you probably already know that getting everyone to move in one direction isn't always easy. This is especially true when it comes to caring for your elderly loved one.
Look at the Whole Situation Objectively
Sometimes you have to step back to look at the big picture from an objective point of view. Start with what kinds of help your elderly loved one needs and what kind of help you know she'll need in the future. After you have that narrowed down, you can then start to look at things from a closer viewpoint.
Leave Emotions Outside
It's really easy for conversations like this to veer into unproductive territory once emotions get heated. Do everything that you can to remove the emotional aspect from the equation. Families often have baggage that collects over the span of years and that can get in the way if you're not careful.
Match up Tasks with What Each Person Can Do
Everyone in the family is likely at different stages with different situations and challenges that they must face. That can really impact how much or how little they can help your elderly loved one. Instead of trying to make everyone fit into one particular mold, try matching up where they are right now and what they can do with what your loved one needs done. You might find that approach has better results.
Some People Just Won't Pitch In
At some point you absolutely have to acknowledge that, for one reason or another, some people simply won't help. It may not even be out of defiance or because they don't want to help. For many people, life just gets in the way, time goes faster and faster, and suddenly they realize that they never did what they wanted in terms of helping your loved one. You have to learn to accept that and let it go.
Take Care of Yourself
Through all of this, it's essential that you take care of yourself. You have to be able to take breaks, manage your own emotions, and take care of your health. If you need someone to pitch in and no one is available, don't cancel your plans. Look to friends or to elder care providers to be that backup that you need to have.
Remember that the overall goal is to make sure that your elderly loved one is alright and cared for.
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring elder care in Pittsburgh, PA, please call the caring staff at Home Helpers. Call today (412) 385-4286.
