Are you thinking about becoming a family caregiver for your elderly loved one? Many family members think that it won’t be that tough to be a family caregiver for their elderly parent or other elderly loved one. It might not be that difficult. However, there are some things to think about before taking on this role.  

What physical challenges will there be?

Elderly Care Jericho, NY: Family Caregivers

In many family caregiving situations, there are physical challenges that need to be considered. For instance, your elderly loved one might be overweight. They might also need help to get out of bed or to move from their chair to the kitchen. If this is the case, you might have a difficult time physically trying to move them on your own. They might need elder care providers to help with mobility and other tasks.  

Will there be tough decisions to be made?  

There might also be many tough decisions that you need to make if you are a family caregiver for your elderly loved one. For instance, you might need to decide what will happen if they are ever on life support. You might need to decide who will take care of their finances if they are no longer able to do that on their own.  

Will you have to sacrifice things?  

Many family caregivers have to sacrifice things in their life when becoming a family caregiver. You might have to give up some or all of your personal time. You may have to stop doing certain activities that you enjoy because you are caring for your elderly loved one during the day and/or night, most days. Are you able to sacrifice these things or other things without resenting your elderly loved one? If not, don’t feel bad. You can get elder care providers to care for your loved one.  

What about the dynamics of your relationship? 

If you become a family caregiver for your elderly loved one, the dynamic of your relationship will change. You might have to make tough decisions. You may have to help your elderly loved one with personal tasks such as bathing and going to the bathroom. Are you willing to change the dynamics between you and your elderly loved one?  

Conclusion 

These are some of the things that you should think about before you take on the role of being a family caregiver for your elderly loved one. If you are willing to do these things, that is great. If not, don’t feel bad. You can get elder care providers to fill in.  

 

If you or an aging loved-one is considering Elderly Care in Jericho, NY please contact the caring staff at Brookville Homecare today. 516-802-7722 

 

Sources 

https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Publications/ServicesforSeniors.pdf