The Pros abd Cons of "Parenting a Parent"...are you facing a similar situation?

Question

I feel I've finally reached a part in my life when I am living life for myself rather than putting someone else's concerns first, but now I am faced with taking care of my elder mother. It is frustrating and difficult juggling my life and taking care of her needs ~ she is impossible to please.

Answer 1

Gosh do I know that feeling and sometimes the guilt that comes with it. You want to do what is best for your aging parents but then you realize it will or could take years away from your life. My guilt came from moving away from my Mother 2 years after she got sick, I felt at the time no choice, yea, My Mother passed away 5 years ago after a long battle with alzheimer, my sisters took the biggest care of her and I came back on weekends to help. It took a toll on both of their health doing it day in and day out. One is down to where she is totally not do much for herself now. It could have been helped though if my one sister had not been so stubborn in not allowing outside help. This put tension on everyone. One saidf your probably wasn't better as a child, but not once growing up did we ever think it would or could come down to us taking care of aging parents. Take good care of yourself and please don't be to proud not to ask for help.

Answer 2

Well sweetie, I am sure you were no piece of pie when you were a bit younger at times too- but did your mother whine and complain about having to care for you?

Mom's are the earths goodness. Cherish your mother while you can. Put aside your needs when you can. Take care of your mom- she needs you. Try not to be quite so self-absorbed. I dealt with this at one point too when a family member needed my help. I had to give up a lot- but looking back I know I wouldn't have had it any other way.