How To Cope When Caring For Elderly Parents And Children Simultaneously

January 7, 2021January 7, 2021 Joel Manzer

Many people reach a point in their lives when they become caregivers for their parents while also raising children. Looking after your kids can be challenging enough, but if you’re trying to care for elderly relatives and your children at the same time, life can get hectic and every day may feel like an emotional rollercoaster. If you’re in this situation, hopefully, you’ll find this guide helpful.

Asking for help

Every parent goes through moments when they don’t feel like they can cope. If you have children with autism, and you’re caring for your parents at the same time, you might feel like you’re swimming against the tide constantly. The reality is that you are probably as close to a superhuman as it gets, but nobody can do everything. It’s impossible to be in two places at once or to divide yourself into lots of little pieces. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re struggling to manage, or you need a bit of time out. Lean on friends and family members and don’t turn down offers because you’re worried about burdening others. Taking a break or having an extra pair of hands to help around the house can make all the difference. With family matters, it’s always helpful to have siblings, aunties or cousins to discuss ideas with and to help you make decisions. This is particularly important with matters as crucial as deciding how you can help your loved ones as they get older.

Exploring support and care options

Aging is inevitable, and at some point, most of us will need help. Some people reach old age in great shape and they are able to live independently in their 80s and 90s, but many will need assistance due to health issues or limited mobility. There are services available to suit seniors with varying needs, including help with doing chores at home, assistance with tasks such as dressing, bathing, and cooking meals, and more intensive medical care. In some cases, people can stay at home with the help of visiting carers and support from family and neighbors. In others, it’s necessary to think about alternatives such as finding a nursing home. If you’ve read stories about neglect, or you’ve heard statements from a nursing home abuse attorney on the news, you may be reluctant to make this move. There are instances of abuse and neglect, but the vast majority of homes provide exceptional care for the elderly. Take your time to visit different facilities, get to know the staff, undertake research and read reviews and reports, and discuss the options with family members before you make a decision.

Managing your time

One of the most significant challenges for parents is a lack of time. If you’re bringing up kids and looking after older relatives, you may feel like there are never enough hours in the day. Manage your time effectively and make the most of every hour by using apps and calendars, enlisting the help of friends and family and making use of time-saving solutions. Even simple things like grocery deliveries and online shopping can free up a huge amount of time over the course of a month or a year.

Looking after children and elderly relatives simultaneously can be physically and mentally exhausting. If you’re in this situation, don’t hesitate to ask for help, give yourself a break, and explore the care and support options available to you.

*this is a collaborative post