Okay, this is such an insane way to live! i feel invisible and isolated trying to "break through" but i can't ever seem to catch my breath...life feels so out of control...it's been over a year now and My doctor just wants to prescribe meds for my depression, but it is so much more than that....I can't see the light at the end of the tunnel. My poor dear parents, sob sob...what a heartbreak.
I concur. In order to be effective, you have to be in reasonably good mental and physical condition.
However, taking care of YOURSELF is easier SAID than DONE.
It is extremely difficult, in my experience, to juggle taking care of one's own healthg while taking care of the health and well-being of two octagenarians who are in your care. Right now, my life is not my own. It belongs to THEM. But one day, I will be free, but it will be at a great loss since someday they will not be around anymore. Best. :-) Wayne
Now, if completely rely on your parents for room, board, and other perks, then caring for them is your job. In that case I suggest developing some sort of support network -- e.g., inviting the extended family over every now and then, developing mutually-beneficial relationships in your neighborhood, visiting senior citizen centers for tips, and dropping by churches to identify good samaritans that do reach out to others if only to spread the Word.
Time management is of the essence, so try to get yourself and your parents on some sort of steady schedule. That should save you brain cells and the occasional trip to the shrink. Good luck.
Just remember there are many of us out there, and you just have to do what you can with what you've got as far as resouces go, and know we are all pulling for you! My sister has agreed to take Mom for a week next week and I am so excited I can't stand it!!!!!!! There are places you can take your parents to for respite, but in MS, where I currently reside, you have to be poverty stricken or rich to get those services. I don't know which state you're in but you may have better options than we do here. I probably need counselling too, but so far I haven't gotten any. This has only been going on full time (part time for 4.5 years) for me since the new year, so I can't imagine what you are going through. Hugs to you and prayers, good thoughts.
It's a roller coaster ride, hang in there!
xo
-SS
Do you have siblings? A husband? How long have you been taking care of them? Do they have the finances to afford a part time caregiver from an agency to give you respite?
I took care of both my parents as well for over 4 years and there were days where I thought i was going crazy. I have no siblings to help. You're probably dealing with their dysfunction which complicates things and increases the stress that's already there! Please keep posting and sharing what you're experiencing. That's what we're here for.
Take care of yourself the best you can and know we're all here for YOU.
Hugs,
Smitty