February 10, 2019
Caring for an aging parent adds challenges to a marriage; In home caregivers can help you meet them.
In marriage, we consent to stick together for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health – but what doesn’t come up in our vows to each other is how to deal with the mounting expectations of senior care as our parents age.
Nevertheless, with our life span increasing, it’s important to put together a plan based on both the requirements of our parents as they age, as well as the multitude of our own daily needs, all while honoring our cherished relationship with a spouse. It is a struggle that is creating anxiety and strain for 80% of couples surveyed, resulting in detachment and less quality time with each other. These particular areas in a marital relationship are specifically impacted by caregiving for a senior parent:
- Still holding the top spot when it comes to the reason reported for divorce, fiscal pressure is amplified when the senior loved one hasn’t already implemented an economic arrangement for long-term care. Frankly communicating frustrations with one another and working together to look into options to pay for services can help.
- As satisfying as it may be, meeting the needs of an elderly family member calls for a great deal of time and effort – leaving little left over at the end of your day for your spouse. Welcome opportunities for the assistance of other people or hire expert in-home senior care assistance, so you can be sure to provide for high quality time with your partner.
- Rising frustration and diminished patience are a couple of frequent unwanted effects of exhaustion, and sadly, we have a tendency to lash out at individuals we love the most when feeling overwhelmed. Tolerate imperfection, practice understanding, and find specialized help as needed.
So how else are you able to steer clear of these issues and maintain a solid and healthy marriage? These guidelines may help:
- Be sure your partner is a high priority. Thoughtful gestures can go a long way towards this end, such as writing a note of love and gratitude, getting up a couple of minutes early to share a cup of coffee together before the day becomes hectic, or setting aside a block of time at the end of the day to talk and relax.
- Subscribing to an internet support group for family caregivers can give you the opportunity to vent frustrations with those in similar situations, relieving stress.
- Seek out the services of a certified counselor, either for your needs individually or for both of you as a couple.
Another good way to achieve a healthy life balance is through partnering with an established and reliable in-home care provider, like Continuum. We provide specialized respite care solutions that allow loved ones to take time off from caregiving, while offering seniors a chance for enhanced socialization with a helpful and well-trained caregiver. Give us a call at (314) 863-9912 or (636) 861-3336, or reach out via our online form, to explore options for senior home care services in St. Louis.