No one wants to face the decision of taking the role as the primary caregiver for an elder loved one or placing that loved one in a nursing home or other institutional setting. When faced with these tough decisions, the answer may be easy and clear, or filled with barriers that make choosing difficult. Below are the most common barriers to becoming a caregiver.
Siblings
When Mom or Dad ages and reaches a stage in life where caring for themselves is not an option, siblings should be the greatest support available. Unfortunately, we often see adult children that cannot get along or agree on solutions to meet the needs of elderly parents. These disagreements can be over money, family possessions or how best to care for the aging parents.
Financial Issues
Care is not cheap, whether provided by a family member or at a skilled nursing facility. Many adult children step into the caregiver role unwillingly due to financial barriers that make other options seem unobtainable. Caregivers often have to put their lives on hold, stop working or hire respite care out of pocket.
Physical Barriers
Caring for an elder loved on is a physically demanding job. You may have to do tasks that are difficult, learn nursing skills or worry about an aging parent that becomes aggressive. It is important to acknowledge your limitations and consider solutions that are in the best interest of both you, and your aging parent.
An experienced elder law attorney can help you find solutions to all of these barriers. With expert guidance, your journey with your loved one can be full of building memories, instead of stressing over barriers.
