Families and ...
Respect
Caught in the Middle
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Sometimes I feel like I’m caught in the middle—being pulled from all directions. No matter how much I do, it is never enough. I never have enough time to do the things I want to do. |
Many middle-aged persons find themselves "sandwiched" between trying to meet the needs of their own family members as well as those of their aging parents. Balancing these caregiving responsibilities becomes even more challenging when caregivers are employed full-time or have additional time demands. When too many demands are placed on the caregiver, feelings of guilt, resentment, and exhaustion can be the result.
Although there are no easy answers to this dilemma, there are some tips family caregivers can use to help reduce the stress resulting from these sandwiched feelings:
Develop a personal coping strategy
- Set priorities or limits.
- Enlist the help and support of family and friends.
- Talk to other caregivers.
- Highlight the positives about caregiving.
- Take time for yourself.
Keep the lines of communications open
- Seek clear communication with your parents and affected generations.
- Discuss conflicts openly in an attempt to resolve them.
- Negotiate with all involved to attain mutual goals. Recognize that strained relationships may require an extra effort to achieve open communication.
Utilize the assistance of professionals, agencies, and organizations
- Use available service including home nursing, housekeeping services, home delivered meals, and respite care.
- Check out the possibility of a local caregiver support group.
Although being caught between generations can be stressful, it can also be a positive experience:
- Your life may be enriched by helping others.
- You may feel a closer relationship with a family member.
- You might consider your own needs as you get older
- Your children will learn to deal with caregiving issues by the example you set.
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