I have been the sole caregiver for my mom for the past 10 years, since I was 28. I have a brother who doesn’t help at all. When I ask him for help, he either doesn’t show or says no flat out! It’s been ten years so I know I can’t ask him for help! I’m grateful that my mom can walk, take showers alone, and doesn’t give me much trouble. However, I have lost most of my friends and relationships because I always have to think of her first and no one is understanding. Even family members don’t help. It is March 2018 and we’ve already been to 8 doctors appointments! Who can take off work that much?! We live in Georgia, and all of the help that’s out here I have to pay out of pocket for. I’m going broke trying to help myself! I’m so sad and lonely that I’m telling the internet my feelings!!! Do I put her in a home? Even hiring help is more work for me! I feel lost!
I cannot imagine what that was like to start caregiving at such an early age without all the life experiences most of us have when we started (the majority in middle-age). And you are still so young. Please give us more information on your situation. How old is your mother? What are her disabilities, etc? My first thought is that you started so young and have settled into caregiving and now your mother is needing more care, and you are so used to doing everything yourself that you are not aware of services that are out there.
Have you called the Area Council on Aging? Also, we used Home Instead, a professional caregivers company for around 16 years. Yes, we had some issues, but on the whole, they were wonderful. We also got about 8 hours a week respite free through the state. Hopefully, there will be others who can give you more advice.
I have found that caregivers (including me) need to work hard to keep relationships intact. If not we become isolated and lonely. It takes effort to load my mom up and take her to family events (like my grandson's baptism a few months ago)...let me tell you that I understand. But I can't expect them to change everything, I need to do my part and I need to stay connected. We have dinner at our house, at least once a week, for friends and family.
I set up fun things for the grandkids to come and do at our house. We all dye eggs on Good Friday...We do science activities....we paint rocks ...Amazon is my best friend for supplies...Pinterest has lots of ideas.
I also know that it is difficult to ask or accept help. I feel bad or I feel like they can't do as good a job or mom will be uncomfortable ... Lots of reasons, but we just have to allow others to do things. They can bring a meal, sit with LO while we take a short walk or go to the store or take a nice hot bath.
These are the ways I take care of myself while providing 24/7 care for my mom.
Have you considered an assisted living for your mom?
I do have a question though... what is your mother's disability? - there may be support groups specific to that which would be more helpful to you - and why are you having to pay all her expenses?
Best wishes.