Six Tips For Dealing With Aging Parents And Siblings

It is not uncommon for conflicts to arise between siblings and primary caregivers when caring for aging parents. Conflicts can be emotionally draining and overwhelming for the primary caregiver. Disputes can arise when siblings have different perspectives on how to care for their elderly parents. Caregivers and their elderly parents may have differing opinions at times, too. Find out why you may find it increasingly challenging to deal with your parents as they enter their golden years. Then, you’ll discover six tips on how to deal with your aging parents and siblings. 

Here are some reasons why you may find it hard to deal with your parents. 

Clashing Personalities

If you butt heads with your loved ones frequently, do note that you may have different personalities with your loved ones. This may cause you to argue more with your siblings and parents.

Unresolved Conflicts

If you realize that your parents and siblings seem hard to deal with, both of you may be projecting resentment from unresolved conflicts. This may lead to continued resentment and anger in the relationship.

Perceived Unequal Contributions

One sibling may perceive that they are contributing more to the family compared to other siblings. This may result in more disagreements between you and your siblings. 

Here are six tips for you to deal with your parents and siblings.

Communicate With Your Siblings or Parents

If you find that your siblings do not seem to contribute much to caregiving, do communicate your frustration to your siblings.  

Remind Yourself That There Are Different Perspectives

Try not to feel resentful when dealing with your siblings. They may have differing views about their parents’ care. This may cause them to be less willing to care for a parent.

Stop Making Assumptions

If you have any preconceived notions about your siblings, try to drop them. This is because they may have changed as an adult. 

Do Not Revert to Childhood Roles

Try to not let a sibling do all for the work in caring for your parents. Instead, you may want to approach various issues in the family in a mature way. One way is to step up and bear equal responsibility for your parent’s care. Research shows this will help minimize resentment with your siblings. 

Find Out The Cause of The Conflict

If you have issues with your sibling, do find out the cause of the conflict. The cause of the conflict may not entirely come from your sibling. It may even be accidentally caused by your parents. 

If your parents are in their golden years, there is a possibility of death. Do try to communicate with your parents to learn more about their final wishes. This will help prevent miscommunication.

With these five tips, you can be better prepared to deal with your parents and siblings. You may even start to appreciate them more. A great relationship with your family may even be in reach. However, we do understand that it may sometimes be difficult to care for your parents. So if you and your siblings require more assistance, we at SummerHouse Heritage Woods will be happy to provide the best care for your parents.