During visits with your dad, you’ve noticed that his fridge is full of spoiled vegetables and dairy items. Groceries you purchased him last week haven’t been touched. His trash is full of takeout containers.
You’ve also noticed that his laundry is piling up. He seems to wear the same pants and shirts all week and there’s a definite odor. Maybe, his floors are covered in pet hair. When asked if he needs help, he becomes defensive and makes excuses.
When your dad needs help, the most common thought is that family members need to chip in. It’s a cost-effective way to provide your dad with the help he needs. It’s also not always the best choice. Here’s why.
Family Carers May Not Have Adequate Free Time
To care for a parent, you need to have plenty of free time. Changing sheets and towels is a relatively quick task, but laundry can take an hour or two. Dusting, vacuuming, dishes, mopping, and taking out the trash also takes time.
Before you help out at your dad’s house, what responsibilities do you have at your own house? How about work duties? You work 40 hours a week and have an hour’s commute each day. That eats up a lot of time. You also have children with extracurricular activities. How much time is left to help your dad?
If you do have a lot going on, you’d need to figure out a schedule. At some point, it could become an issue trying to balance your needs, your dad’s needs, and your children’s needs. You could end up stressed because you can’t fit all of this into your daily schedule.
Family Care is Hard
Stress is another issue family carers face. It’s not unusual to have your dad become frustrated by the things he can no longer do on his own. That frustration may be taken out on you. He may be snappier than usual or refuse to cooperate. He might take out his agitation on you by insulting you. You need a thick skin if verbal abuse becomes an issue.
Caring for an older parent also strains your body. If your dad needs help getting out of bed or in and out of the shower, lifting him strains your back, leg, and shoulder muscles. That strain can lead to injuries.
Hiring Professional Caregivers Isn’t a Sign of Failure
Weighing your need for personal time, work responsibilities, and attention to everything your family needs, you may simply not have enough time to be your dad’s carer. It’s okay if you don’t. Senior care services can help him, which frees up your time.
Instead of spending time doing all of your dad’s household chores, you’ll be able to engage in fun activities during your visits with him. Senior care ends up being a positive aspect for both your dad and yourself.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering senior care in Centennial, CO, please contact the caring staff at SYNERGY HomeCare today. Call us at (303) 756-9322.
