Nanny to Mommy

Providing practical and emotional support on a long-term basis can be draining for anyone no matter their situation. When you’re caring for a loved one, such as a parent, the task can be even harder. For people with aging parents and a young family, the situation may feel impossible.

Known as the ‘sandwich generation’, increasing numbers of people are facing these circumstances. With so many issues to cope with, it can feel hard to find a way through. However, there are ways to spread your time and take care of yourself.

If you’re raising a family and supporting elderly parents, take a look at these top tips to help you cope...

As you take on the responsibility of supporting people, your own time and emotions will be spread thin. Make a list of what everyone needs so you can realistically assess the situation. You don’t need to manage everything alone, so gauging exactly what needs to be done will enable you to create a comprehensive plan.

The best way to cover the full list of everyone’s health needs is to make a list of essential checkups that both your aging relative and your child would need. For instance, both your older parent and your child may need vaccinations, and both of them may also need regular health checkups or dental care. For every time you need to take your relative to the dentist, your child may also require some Pediatric Dentistry. Thinking of a like-for-like list will help, particularly when your ability to think clearly might be impeded by stress or pressure.

If you’re shielding your children from your parents’ needs, they may struggle to understand why you’re not around as much. By explaining the situation to them in an age-appropriate way, you can minimize their confusion. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to involve your kids in the practical support you’re giving your parents too. Need to tend to your parents’ garden? Make it a family activity and give your kids jobs to do. You’ll be spending time together and getting a practice task ticked off the list.

No matter what the level of assistance your parents need, there is support available. Many people feel reluctant to rely on professional support, but it can provide a wonderful form of assistance. By looking at inspection reports and online reviews, you can determine what agencies and firms offer a good level of care.

It’s important to do your background research before choosing assistance. Rosenfeld nursing home neglect lawyers work with families who have received a poor level of service, but this doesn’t have to be the case. By seeking professional support early on, you’ll have enough time to do your due diligence and ensure your parents have the right level of support in place.

As well as seeking out professional support, be willing to accept help from friends and members of your extended family. Whether it’s driving the kids to an activity or making some home-cooked meals to save you the trouble; people will want to help you through the situation so don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

When you’re busy caring for aging parents and raising a family, it’s easy to neglect your own needs. However, it’s important to prioritize your own well-being too. Factor in time for self-care and this will enable you to provide the best level of support for others.