In marriage we consent to stick with each other for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health – but what does not come up in our vows to one another is how to handle the increasing needs of senior care as our parents age.
Nevertheless with our life span increasing, it is greatly important to have a strategy to meet the requirements of our senior loved ones as they grow older, in addition to the multitude of daily needs, all while honoring our cherished relationship with a spouse. It’s a struggle that’s contributing to tension and strain for 80% of couples interviewed, leading to detachment and less quality time with each other. The following areas in a married relationship are notably impacted by caregiving for a senior loved one:
- Finances. Still retaining the top spot for the reason cited for divorce, financial pressure is amplified if the older parent hasn’t already implemented a financial plan for long-term care. Honestly communicating irritations with one another and working together to consider choices to pay for services can really help.
- Exhaustion.As fulfilling as it may be, meeting the needs of an elderly family member demands significant amounts of hard work – leaving hardly any energy left over at the end of your day for your spouse. Welcome opportunities for the help of others or hire expert in-home senior care assistance, so you can be sure to provide for high quality time with your significant other.
- Frustration.Growing frustration and diminished patience are common side effects of fatigue, and regrettably, we tend to lash out at individuals we love the most when feeling overwhelmed. Tolerate imperfection, practice understanding, and seek specialized help when necessary.
So how else would you try to avoid these pitfalls and keep maintaining a solid and healthy marriage? These guidelines can help:
- Make sure your partner is a high concern. Small gestures can do a lot towards this end, for instance writing a handwritten note of love and gratitude, waking up a few moments early to share a cup of coffee together before the day becomes hectic, or putting aside time at the end of the day to talk and relax.
- Signing up for an internet support group for family caregivers can allow you the opportunity to vent irritations with individuals in the same circumstances, soothing stress.
- Seek out the services of an expert counselor, either for you individually or for both of you as a couple.
Another good way to attain a healthy life balance is through partnering with a trusted in-home care provider, like Independence-4-Seniors Home Care’s Western Springs, La Grange, Downers Grove, Oak Brook, Burr Ridge, and Hinsdale senior caregivers. We offer personalized respite care solutions that enable family members to take time off from caregiving, while providing older adults a chance for increased socialization with a friendly and well-trained caregiver. Call us at (630) 323-4665 to learn more about our senior care options today!