Caring For Aging Parents Support Group
Caring for aging parents can be a difficul time as we become the caretakers for our parents. This broad responsibility can encompass such services as assisted living, adult day care, long term care, nursing homes, hospice care, and in-home care. Whether you have just started caring for your parents or just need a place to talk, we're here.
My mother is visiting as I type this. I'm highly frustrated and tense because she has dropped in again for another unannounced visit. I love her with all my heart, but lately I've been feeling suffocated. I need space and time alone to get things done, whatever it may be, and I've told her constantly to call first just for convenience. I've always had a tight bond with her, but whenever she feels lonely, my doorbell rings unexpectedly.
Since she recently moved into another apartment, I've visited with her at least 3 or 4 times weekly. She knew that I was planning to visit with her this evening, but she couldn't wait. I'm a dedicated and loving daughter who is always there for her, but I'm only human. Over the past weekend, mom showed up at my home around 8:oo a.m., and I had to explain that I was tired and going back to bed. Well, she stayed and fell asleep on the sofa. A few hours later she returned, and I politely explained that I was finishing house chores because a friend was coming over within an hour's time. She left with hurt feelings, and I felt so guilty.
I'm doing my best to care for her, but it never seems to be enough. Thank God I can VENT here!
Since she recently moved into another apartment, I've visited with her at least 3 or 4 times weekly. She knew that I was planning to visit with her this evening, but she couldn't wait. I'm a dedicated and loving daughter who is always there for her, but I'm only human. Over the past weekend, mom showed up at my home around 8:oo a.m., and I had to explain that I was tired and going back to bed. Well, she stayed and fell asleep on the sofa. A few hours later she returned, and I politely explained that I was finishing house chores because a friend was coming over within an hour's time. She left with hurt feelings, and I felt so guilty.
I'm doing my best to care for her, but it never seems to be enough. Thank God I can VENT here!
If not, you don't have to answer the door... :-)
We've done that with other relatives who don't call first. That phone rings real soon after a couple of times when "nobody's home" and they know darn well we're home.
Oh by the way, what I would give for my Mom to drop in for a visit!
Howver, I can't...she passed away last June.
Hug her and perhaps see if there are any local adult senior day care type places. Or senior centers where she can go and meet others her age??
Warm Regards,
Terilyn
Hi Terilyn...yes mom is lonely, although she lives in a senior apartment building, and socializes with other residents. She's quite active and participates in many of the activities there. However, she still craves my attention and I'm always around for her. She's been a great mom to me, and my siblings which is why we do spend quality time together whenever possible. I visit with her at her home 3-4 days per week, and she comes to my home at least 3 times weekly.
I just need a little time for myself in between those visits with mom. Thanks for your comment.