One of the most difficult things an adult child might have to do is tell their mother or father that they are moving him or her to a nursing home. This often results in a feeling that many of us experience at some point in our lives: guilt. Unfortunately, guilt is a part of the caregiver process, which often occurs when you have to make a difficult decision regarding a loved ones’s health and safety.
However, for the majority of people, the guilt that creeps up is not justified. Caregiving is a difficult and stressful job. Often times, we have other aspects of our lives that are considered priorities as well, such as working full time and raising a family. Some times, we may feel like we have failed in some way or another. You should try to remember that you are doing your absolute best considering the enormity of the tasks placed in front of you.
Here are some suggestions that you may find helpful:
- Acknowledge your guilt and accept that it is a normal feeling in the caregiver process.
- Recognize that you are only human. You can not do it all and you should not expect yourself to.
- Be careful of the promises that you make to yourself and your loved one.
- Prioritize self care. A healthy you is important, especially when you need to take care of someone else.
- Talk to someone. Share your feelings and struggles with a friend, family or other support such as a mental health professional.
- Gain more information about senior living options so that you feel secure in your decision. Discuss this information with family or your elder’s health care professional.
- Forgive yourself. You are doing your best.
If you are having difficulty finding resources for your aging loved one or are unsure of how to answer any of these questions, contact one of our experienced elder law attorney at (312)878-0155 or click here to request a consultation online!