Guilt. It’s a big part of your life. You stayed home to raise your kids. You’re now ready to enter the working world again. That’s when your mom’s situation changes. She needs help with daily tasks. As you are already not working full-time, your siblings all feel you’re the right person to provide the care she needs.

Your days become a mix of shopping for your mom, running her errands, helping her clean her home, and making sure she has hot meals three times a day. You’re getting up early to drive to her house. You come home after dinner, where you need to make sure your family has eaten. You’re doing housework in two homes. You’re exhausted.

The truth is you’re tired of being a family caregiver. You realize your siblings are established in full-time careers, but you’re ready for a career. The problem is, you feel incredibly guilty. You want to help, but you need to live your life. It’s okay to put your foot down. It’s okay to do what you need to do.

It Takes Strength to Realize You Need to Say No

Saying no isn’t easy when you’re saying no to family. It takes strength to stand up for yourself. Don’t let the guilt push you into something you’re not ready to tackle. Your mom deserves the best care possible. Focus on that.

If you’re not ready to be a full-time caregiver to your mom, you need to speak up. Caregiver burnout would be very likely if you let the guilt push you into caring for her anyway. There are better options.

Involve the Family

You don’t have to do it all on your own. Tell your siblings what you’re okay helping with, but say someone else has to handle these other tasks.

For example, if you’re okay cooking breakfast for her before heading to a job, let them know that. Someone else can handle lunch and dinner. Create a shared schedule where everyone chips in.

Hire Home Care Services

Don’t rule out having professional caregivers. Talk to an agency to learn more about what they do and how it works. You may find it’s the best option for your entire family. Your mom meets someone new and gains a friend.

Plus, when you are free, you’ll spend quality time with your mom. You won’t be trying to socialize with her while also doing all of the daily chores. Call a home care agency to talk about caregivers and the help they offer.

 

If you or an aging loved one are considering a  Caregiver in River Oaks, TX, contact the caring staff at Personal Caregiving Services at 832-564-0338. Providing Care in Houston, Bellaire, West University Place, Katy, and Sugar Land and the surrounding areas.