Overwhelmed Older Caregiver Fights Bitterness Over Missed Opportunities

Photo credit James Williams Dear Carol: I’m 74-years-old and have been my parents’ caregiver since they were my age. My dad died two years ago at 93, and now Mom lives with me and needs 24/7 care. She’s physically miserable and mentally incapable of enjoyment. I’ve never had the chance to travel because of my parents’ needs. Now, I can’t even go to theater or music performances because Mom can’t be left alone. I love her to bits, but I am grieving everything that I’ve missed, and I’m physically and emotionally worn out. I’m becoming bitter which isn’t good for her any more than it is for me, but I don’t want her in a home, either, because they aren’t any good. Maybe I just want someone to listen. – TY Continue reading on Inforum to learn more about the challenges of being an older caregiver for very old parents: Support a caregiver or jump-start discussion in support groups with real stories - for bulk orders of Minding Our Elders e-mail Carol                  Related StoriesGetting a Correct Dementia Diagnosis Often Takes TimeVerbal Abuse Stemming from Dementia Tough On CaregiversThanks to Pharmacist Who Alerted This Family To Possible Complications 
Source: Minding Our Elders - Category: Geriatrics Authors: Source Type: blogs