Over the years, you and your sibling may have developed a unique relationship that affects your ability to provide care for him or her. While some siblings have always bickered over the years, others may not see eye to eye once they enter the senior years. When your sibling is uncooperative, you still need to find ways to help him or her stay healthy. Use these tips to overcome sibling rivalry so your brother or sister receives the best care possible.
Put the Past Aside
Sibling rivalries can continue long past childhood. While you cannot undo the past, you can choose to move forward. Letting go of any lingering resentments allows you to maintain a fresh perspective and develop a positive relationship with your sibling
If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a trusted provider of homecare. Our caregivers provide transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping.
Focus on the Facts
Often, seniors are uncooperative out of the fear of losing their independence. Your sibling may be in denial about the need for assistance. During your conversations, focus on his or her current state of health by using factual information. If necessary, you can recruit the help of your sibling’s medical team to explain why he or she may need certain types of assistance to remain healthy.
Consider hiring a professional caregiver if your loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life. In Clearwater, senior care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Home Care Assistance, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.
Control Your Responses
While you might not be able to control what your sibling says or does, you can be mindful of your responses. Use positive communication techniques, such as revisiting a difficult conversation later if things get heated. Taking time to cool off may prevent things from getting worse so you can come to an agreement later.
Seek Emotional Support
Caregiving can be a stressful responsibility even when things are going well. One of your biggest priorities is to prevent burnout that occurs from becoming overwhelmed. Identify several people you can talk to about your challenges. For example, you can turn to a professional counselor to learn strategies that can help you mend your relationship or accept your sibling’s personality. Keep in mind you may need to lean on people outside your family for emotional support so individuals who are too close don’t get caught in the middle of your disagreements.
Know When to Delegate
Sometimes there’s only so much you can do on your own. It may be possible your sibling is uncooperative because he or she doesn’t want to be a burden on you. Alternatively, your sibling may feel embarrassed or awkward about accepting assistance from someone he or she grew up with. When you simply cannot get your sibling to cooperate, it may be more effective to delegate responsibilities to a professional home caregiver.
Caring for an elderly loved one can be a difficult task, especially if it’s managed alone. Whether you need respite from your caregiving duties or your aging loved one needs live-in care, Clearwater, FL, Home Care Assistance can meet your family’s care needs. Our dedicated caregivers are available around the clock to provide transportation to doctor’s appointments, ensure seniors take their prescribed medications, and help with a variety of tasks in and outside the home. Whether your loved one needs minor help with daily tasks or extensive 24-hour home care, give us a call at (727) 330-7862 today.