Emotions run high and it is natural to feel that we’re breaking our promise to our parents when we consider transitioning them to a Care Home. The feeling that we are betraying them when they most need our support can be overwhelming.
If we stop to reflect on the real impact of our actions at a time like this, we’re bound to feel that no-one can do a better job of caring for Mom or Dad than we can. That is certain. No one can understand what your loved one needs most as well as you do.
Entrusting your loved ones care to caregivers in a memory Care and Assisted Living community is a big decision. It requires ” Letting Go” and the feeling of “Losing Control “can be daunting.
Reflecting on the underlying cause of these feelings may reveal that our decisions are often guided by an deep rooted emotion of guilt. That’s a natural feeling to have.
If we can recognize this feeling, we’ll be able to step back from the emotion and make an objective observation of what might be best for Mom or Dad.
For us to be able to help those we love, we must be in the best physical, mental and emotional shape to do so. Setting aside the emotion and recognizing that a community of trained professional caregivers would be better suited to provide a consistent level of care 24 hours a day, 365 days a year may serve us well.
Allowing a care team to do the mundane chores of Bathing, Feeding, Cleaning and Dressing your loved one will allow you the freedom to return to a more normal routine. Your loved one may not be able to articulate how they feel about you changing their diapers and cleaning up after them, so it’s important to consider how your actions may be impacting them.
Self-care is Key to a healthy relationship when taking care of a loved one. You can find the time to enjoy your family and plan important celebrations with your loved one in a community if you allow yourself to be removed from the caregiver role.
Relax, taking a break from all the overwhelming responsibilities allows you to breath and reset yourself. Giving you energy to carry on with your day. You’ll find it more enjoyable to visit with your loved one in their new home,while preserving their dignity.