Video Transcript
[0:00] Welcome to Caregiver SOS by Bay Alarm Medical.
[0:03] My name is Haley Burress. I’m a caregiving expert here to talk about the ugly side of caregiving that no one else talks about — the most frustrating and challenging parts of caring for an aging family member, and how to get through it.
[0:16] Let’s talk about caregiving and relationships. Here’s our question: Caregiving for my mom has almost destroyed my marriage. Is this just part of caregiving, or is there something I can do?
[0:27] Family caregiving affects all parts of your life. Emotions and tasks creep into your work life and your personal life, with caregivers experiencing problems with their friendships and even their marriages.
[0:41] While not necessarily inevitable, it is certainly common to experience relationship stress while you’re caregiving.
[0:50] The best way to manage the relationship strain is to schedule intentional breaks from your caregiving role. Respite care through a home care service, or by scheduling other family members and friends, can ensure your loved one gets the support they need while you step away for a few days, a week, or longer.
[1:12] Ideally, you want to schedule some type of caregiving break at least monthly. During your time away, spend time not only in peace and quiet, but also cultivating the relationships that matter to you.
[1:26] Another way to combat relationship stress is to designate a meal each week when no one at the table talks about your aging loved one, caregiving, or any tasks related to it. Sounds simple, but when you’re entrenched in caregiving, it can easily take up the space in all of your conversations.
[1:46] Finally, use the resources around you so that you aren’t taking on the sole responsibilities of caregiving. Can you use senior services in your loved one’s town to get some help? A home healthcare agency, other family members and friends — take some of that load off your plate so you can clear the way to work on your relationships.
[2:06] Like and subscribe for more caregiving advice.
