My Mum and Dad recently are in need of caregivers. In the last month my mother more so. I have a brother and Sister and they don't want to help? My brother has been more helpful, but recently due to a misunderstanding he has decided that he does not want to talk to me anymore, and that I should not be in touch with his family also. This is causing difficulties in liaising with one another and disrupting the care that we are both giving. I am getting tired and frustrated with his behaviour and I would like my sister to get more involved but she also is very sensitive and selfish. I live 40 miles away from my parents, my elder brother, lives in the same town, and my sister in Central London. All I want is for all three of us to work together to give Mum and Dad all the support they need. I am drawing a blank, and could really do with some advice.
Kind regards
Anthony Harris
Sibling problems are so common in elder care that you are now one of a huge fellowship. That doesn't solve your problem, but it's, um, nice to have company.
I'm not sure what the UK can offer in help. In the US, each state has a Web site and there is an "aging services" or some equivalent link where you can get local information. Would you have a Web site in your area that could help you?
I have a couple of friends in the UK who may be able to give me some answers. I will ask them and if I can add more, I will.
Good luck,
Carol
Another comment from across the Atlantic here. How about you hire an in-home care provider from an agency for a few days a week. That can help take some of the stress off of caregiving family members and you know that Mom and Dad will be taken care of.
Best of luck,
Bill