Role Reversal

by | Oct 7, 2016 | Senior Home Care

It can be hard for adult children to notice the hands that once made their favorite meal no longer able to open a can or the hands that held them stable as they learned to ride their bike, now shaking. Asking for help, asking for their children to hold onto them because they are a little unsteady walking down stairs can be hard for aging parents too.

There are hurdles to overcome when caring for aging parents but this role reversal has the capacity to unite families rather than divide.

It’s important for caregivers to know when to ask for help. It’s key to explore all available options for help. It’s not just family members that can help, but friends and professional companion caregivers as well. Peace of mind home care can help families deal with the role reversal that they are experiencing by reducing the care giving tasks that an adult child has to take on.

Besides having a break from care giving tasks, it’s important to seek support and encouragement by linking up with others that are caring for their aging loved ones. Churches are often a good source of help because they offer support groups and have volunteers that might be willing to assist with care giving. Some churches also provide activities that enrich seniors.

Having a sense of humor and having fun together reminds caregivers and their aging parents that their relationship isn’t just about satisfying responsibilities. Savoring simple moments like taking a walk in the park together can really make a difference. Delighting in the time they have together can help caregivers and their aging loved ones face the changes between how life used to be and how it is now, strengthen their bond, and grow their love for one another.