Adult daughter lives with elderly mother—two different worlds

Posted by welcome25 @welcome25, 15 hours ago

Hello,
My mother is 83 years old. I am 48, I work full time. I am single, unmarried with no children. She has chronic back pain and limited mobility. Uses a walker. Was falling down a lot in the home. Unstable. With back injections, gives some relief. She is having cognitive decline. Very confused, cannot get her thoughts or words out, frustrated, She can still drive short distances . We have always been close.
She is my best friend and we have a good relationship. Recently
I am struggling with getting along with my mother. About a year ago, my mother was in need of help. With daily tasks, balancing checkbook, etc. so I stepped in and take care of that, along with grocery shopping, house cleaning, yard work and help pay bills.
I have to admit I have been frustrated myself and lack patience. I really try but we are In Two different worlds. She doesn’t understand me as I don’t understand her at times. She can be negative, nick picks things, not always pleasant to be around. And I the same.
I struggle with mild depression and anxiety. My mind is constantly going. And her is not. I slow it down, walk slower, speak slower,etc. also her hearing is going. Says I mumble, tv is so loud it’s hurts my ears.
My mother has been our family rock, kind, patient, loving, caring, understanding, Everything you would wish for.
We had a conversation the other day and she said her feelings are really hurt and I need to change my ways. She can’t take it much longer. The hurtful things I say or do.
I do get mean sometimes and frustrated. Not intentionally but overwhelmed I guess. I feel horrible but I cannot change what I have done or said. I don’t think caregiving is for me. I feel like I just became a parent at 48.
Thinking of moving out nearby. I would still do the above things just not live In the home.
She could probably afford to have help if needed.
My father passed away several years ago, my brother lives thousand of miles away. Mother is not interested in assisted living.
I’m concerned if I leave, she will decline even more. I take her out on the weekends to lunch or dinner, ride in the golf cart, little things to get her out and about. I cherish every moment because I know it won’t be forever.
Sorry this is all over the place. I’m trying to give a little background information with our situation. Would it be terrible if I move out now?

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@welcome25 Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect! I tried to find the discussion that was very similar to yours. Members came up with lots of solutions and advice. I can’t find the discussion right now, but I’ll post it when I do. I’m hoping the members will come to your help tomorrow!

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