I'm a 53 year old male who is unmarried and is the caregiver to my 88 year old mother. I feel overwhelmed with my life caring for my mother and having a full time job. I have three sisters who live out of town and offer no help. My mother suffers from a heart condition and lumbar spinal stenoisis. She uses a can to get around. She has very poor mobility. My father died when I was 15 and these are the cards that I've been dealt. I cannot do anything on my own and if in the rare occasion I do go somewhere alone, I have to rush back home. It's very depressing to me regarding the situation I'm in plus it pains me to see the rapid decline in my mother. I hope people realize what "children" go through when caring for an elderly parent. I don't have a life and feel guilty somewhat when I get this trapped feeling.
Does she stay alone during the day? If so, it is good that she still has some independence. I can leave my mother alone for a few hours without worry. I am concerned about what will happen when I can no longer leave her alone. I imagine that you are worried about the same thing, but just taking it a day at a time right now. One thing I could suggest (for both of us) is think about what you will do whenever she requires someone with her all the time. Since you work full time, maybe you can start looking into places that your mother might like. Many older people are reluctant to leave their homes, even after it has become impractical for them to remain. Many times, however, they are content with a new facility after they have time to settle in and make friends. I hope you can find something and get some of the stress off of you.