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Caregiver to my 97-year old Dad Not Easy

Caregivers | Last Active: Nov 26, 2022 | Replies (7)

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@mainecoon

Thank you for your response. Yes you also had a lot of responsibility as a caregiver. I believe after taking care of my Mom I had caregiver burnout and it’s a long recovery. So now with my Dads age I know it won’t be long term but it is still stressful. I have a brother who does come over and lives 45 min away. He has offered to come and stay with my dad and he can work remotely. I have to be on a work assignment out of town during the day for two days and return in evening so I will discuss with my brother.

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Replies to "Thank you for your response. Yes you also had a lot of responsibility as a caregiver...."

Absolutely stressful, @mainecoon Absolutely! Burnout of caregivers is a huge concern and I get down over how our society seems content to simply go on with so much of the caregiving being delegated to unpaid family, etc. But I guess the large medical insurance companies haven't figured out how to make money off of caregiving yet 🙂

I hope your brother can help out. How is your dad doing today? Calmer and in a better mood I hope! Wishing you a sunny day -- they always helped me!

Strength, Courage, & Peace

It is so very difficult to become the parent to your parents. As much as you love and care for him you must take care of your emotions not to mention your physical side. Maybe even two days a week have someone come in and give him his lunch. I found that even a very slight change in schedule can help you feel the load lift just a smidge. He may be feeling scared as he understands his fragility at this stage. You are doing a wonderful thing and giving of yourself. Maybe a little white noise would keep you from waking up when he gets up like a small fan or something like that. You need your rest and sleep for sure.

Thank you for graciously taking on one of the hardest jobs in the world. If you and your brother have the resources, there are senior visitors in many places. They are people who would love a little supplement to their income in exchange for serving lunch, chatting for a half hour or an hour, even occasionally running an errand. Generally they don't provide direct care, but may do light chores. We find them through our local senior center or many churches. They are background checked and trained to be with vulnerable adults.
Have you checked on such a service to make your life a little easier and provide a different person for your Dad to talk to?
Sue