Barry J. Jacobs, PsyD, Advises Caregiver Whose Family Won’t Help
Dear Carol: I’m the youngest daughter from a large family that’s scattered across the country. Living in our parents’ community makes me the default caregiver, and that’s fine, but their care is becoming a full-time job. Due to multiple health issues, there are many medical appointments each month, a slew of medications to manage, plus insurance quagmires to navigate. I’ve pleaded with my siblings to help, but they’re too busy. They’d need to travel, but they get vacations. Couldn’t each of them take a little time to stay with our parents so I can have a break? I work full-time and am at my breaking point. How do I convince them to help out? – NC
Dear NC: I’m sorry that you’re in this difficult situation. There’s no guaranteed route to getting reluctant siblings to contribute to parent care, but there are approaches you could try. For an expert take on this frustrating dilemma, I’ve asked Barry J. Jacobs, PsyD, to step into my role today. Dr. Jacobs, along with his wife, Julia L. Mayer, PsyD, is the author of the award-winning new book, The AARP Caregiver Answer Book.
Barry Jacobs: Of course, your siblings should help you more, but it usually isn’t…
Helpful Tools:
Wetness indicator and alert to help manage incontinence with dignity. SenecaSense Home: Discreet Support That Restores Comfort and Confidence
Stay connected with Memoryboard: Designed by caregivers. Memoryboard helps families share reminders, messages, updates, and photos on an easy-to-use screen designed for people with dementia. Peace of mind for families, independence for loved ones.
Leslie Kernisan, MD, MPH, has opened up support! View two free caregiving webinars that can help you help your older parents (and yourself).
Discover the Difference. EGOSAN: The premium incontinence brand caregivers love: They save work! Now Available on Amazon.
Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories: “…This book is for all of us; let it help you cope! Thank you to the author and everyone she spoke with!” …Dolores
