Not Everyone is a Caregiver and That’s Okay
Even with its challenges, many family caregivers report feeling gratified by choosing to care for someone they love. It can work out in your favor if you have the means and energy to be a constant support. However, the daily responsibility of providing for and protecting a senior parent or relative isn’t a job for everyone. Some people just aren’t wired that way. And that’s okay. Caregiving requires certain personality types, physical strength, mental stamina, and being on-call essentially all the time. Depending on your career, family situation, or health conditions, managing an elder’s routine can be impractical at best and impossible at worst. This isn’t to say that families shouldn’t try it, but to give permission to try something else if caregiving doesn’t end up being the right choice for you. How do I know if I can thrive as a caregiver? If it’s time to decide on how to care for your senior, here are some things to consider: Your own health challenges: Are you struggling with a painful condition or debilitating anxiety? Be candid with yourself if you can handle a full-time elder care situation. Your work and family schedule: Would you be okay with prepping meals, going to appointments, and eventually offering toileting and hygiene assistance for your loved one, in addition to maintaining a career and other life responsibilities? Other family members: Will you have help from siblings or grown children who can relieve you as needed? Your disposition: Are you easily flustered or frustrated? How much patience do you have when life can be very aggravating? Think about what you can truly handle without having your own health setbacks. Your financial situation: Can your budget accommodate another person or [...]