When a family takes control of caring for elderly parents, tension and conflict often develops between siblings, because one takes on the majority of the care responsibilities for the aging parent.

Caregiving for a parent can reignite old conflicts and sibling rivalry in some siblings, while others may grow closer while coming together to determine the best way to care for their elderly parents. It’s also not uncommon for the sibling who plays the largest role in family eldercare to become resentful of their siblings, because they feel like the rest of their family isn’t making a big enough contribution to the care of their elderly parents.

In order to share responsibilities, siblings need to define clear roles and responsibilities. While one sibling may become the primary caregiver for the aging parents, other siblings who live nearby should offer to provide respite; by bringing mom or dad to appointments, or coming over to allow the primary senior caregiver a night out, all siblings can do their part. It’s also important that all siblings are aware of decisions regarding the care and health of their parents; through communication all members of the family remain involved, however, the primary caregiver should ultimately be responsible for making decisions if all siblings cannot come to an agreement. In these cases, the rest of the family should work to support the decision and play their role.

With planning and communication, siblings can come together to ensure quality care for their elderly parents.

Sources:
1.    Oregon State University Extension Service
2.    Senior Truth  Helen Dennis

Home Care Fairfax County South, VA provides elder home care and senior care in Fairfax, Alexandria, Burke, Springfield, Annandale, Fairfax Station, Lorton, Mt. Vernon and Fort Belvoir. Call us today at 703.750.6644.