When you were younger and envisioned your adult life, it didn’t include caring for your aging parents. Most people don’t plan to become the caregiver of an aging parent. Even though it’s a very common situation, it still takes people by surprise.
You look back at how they cared for you; protecting you from dangers and nudging you along the path to adulthood. So it’s hard to see them vulnerable.
You now realize that the roles will swap. They need your help to protect them, and to nudge them to plan for their elder years.
If left unchecked, this responsibility will leave you feeling unhappy. You may even feel resentment and anger.
You want to feel good about your role, and it is possible.
Read this article, Feel Better about Caring for Your Aging Parent, published by Family Affaires where I teach you how to find happiness when caring for your parents.
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Great information Mike! It is something we all need to be aware of. Having that talk with our parents and also preparing for it ourselves as we get older. It’s something we should all think about.
Thanks Rena. I know it’s not simple, but hopefully we can help inspire people to think about it and try.
Hi, Mike.
I’ve been caring for my mother who has lived with Alzheimer’s for seven years. I love your website. Keep up the good work. Thanks a lot.
Thanks Arnie! I’ve met several men who are caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s and you guys are definitely an inspiration! Thank you for the positive feedback