Helping in an Emergency Shouldn ’t Tag Neighbor as Full-time Caregiver

Dear Carol: I own a condominium in a building where two elderly sisters live. Though we didn’t spend time together we’d always been friendly and they seemed to have plenty of other friends, though no family. Three months ago, the youngest sister fell and needed to go to the emergency room. The older sister asked for my help so I called 9-1-1 and accompanied them.  I was happy to help, but now that the younger sister is home they have both grabbed on to me as their savior. They want rides to medical appointments, help with their checkbook, and even cleaning. I telecommute with work so, while I am home a lot, I don’t have much free time. It seems that the ladies’ declining health has scared away the other friends and suddenly I’m “it.” I feel trapped into being their caregiver and that’s not what I intended. How do I get out of this situation? – MB Read full article on Inform about how to withdraw from feeling trapped into caregiving by a neighbor: Support a caregiver or jump start discussion in support groups with real stories - for bulk orders of Minding Our Elders e-mail Carol                Related StoriesAdult Child Doesn’t Need to Remain Target of Parent’s Misplaced AngerUnderstanding Your Elder's Personality Can Help You Understand Possible Need for InterventionThe Challenge of Elders Who Won’t Accept In-Home Caregivers 
Source: Minding Our Elders - Category: Geriatrics Authors: Source Type: blogs