Aging siblings
I am in my home town to see my aging siblings (11 and 13 years older than me) and a couple of lifelong friends. My brother is stable at the moment though he could take a turn at any time. His memory is gone but that is a blessing as he has no recollection of the excruciating pain he endured prior to his amputation.
My sister is in her own home but her memory is failing as well and she has blackouts (I think TIAs or mini strokes). She has her son living with her but he is a hindrance rather than a help. One of my nieces took her to a seniors' complex that would be ideal for her but I think she if afraid that John won't be able to cope. John is not helping as he is a miser and might have to pay utilities etc. He is about 50 and has a good job but hates to spend a penny. She pays for absolutely everything!!
So this afternoon, we are going to talk to her again. I am hoping that my nephew is home so he can be there when we talk about it. I know she would go if it weren't for John.
Aren't families fun.....
Otherwise, I am staying with my friend and we have enjoyed lunching out etc in between visits.
I go home on Thursday and I will be ready.
I wish Lisa were here - she had a way of convincing people. She was one person who had no problem dealing with John, and he would listen to her. She also was one person who actually liked him - unlike his siblings and me!
I find it so exhausting. I don't have the emotional resources any more.
Lisa: I miss you more that ever and love you forever. Mum
My sister is in her own home but her memory is failing as well and she has blackouts (I think TIAs or mini strokes). She has her son living with her but he is a hindrance rather than a help. One of my nieces took her to a seniors' complex that would be ideal for her but I think she if afraid that John won't be able to cope. John is not helping as he is a miser and might have to pay utilities etc. He is about 50 and has a good job but hates to spend a penny. She pays for absolutely everything!!
So this afternoon, we are going to talk to her again. I am hoping that my nephew is home so he can be there when we talk about it. I know she would go if it weren't for John.
Aren't families fun.....
Otherwise, I am staying with my friend and we have enjoyed lunching out etc in between visits.
I go home on Thursday and I will be ready.
I wish Lisa were here - she had a way of convincing people. She was one person who had no problem dealing with John, and he would listen to her. She also was one person who actually liked him - unlike his siblings and me!
I find it so exhausting. I don't have the emotional resources any more.
Lisa: I miss you more that ever and love you forever. Mum
Replies
My goodness, you do have a lot going on in your family, along with losing your daughter! I understand why you don\'t have the emotional resources to deal with it all. After Josh died, I didn\'t have any ability to deal outside of my family (husband, other son and father.) My heart aches for you. I wish you a few minutes of peace today to just take time to breathe and relax.
With love,
Leda
Marlene I agree with you, family dynamics are funny and sometimes tragic. The thought of my husband and I getting old and disabled scares me, not for myself but for my son and grandchildren, I do not want to be a burden. I think dementia is natures way to take some of the pain out of old age, but it\'s hard on the family. You are a caring sibling, but you can only do so much. Have a good trip back home tomorrow. Sending Love, Terry
Aren\'t families fun? - hmmm I can think of some other words to describe them, lol!
You are a love and so good to your siblings, Marlene. I hope your brother does well and that your sister responds to your words. Love to you and Lisa, Linda