Video Transcript
[0:00] Welcome to Caregiver SOS by Bay Alarm Medical. My name is Haley Burress. I’m a caregiving expert here to talk about the ugly side of caregiving that no one talks about — the most frustrating and challenging parts of caring for an aging family member, and how to get through it.
[0:15] I have a great question for us to talk about today. “I am an only child. My mom passed away a few years ago and I’ve been in a caregiving role for my dad for about a year. I have the opportunity to take on a big promotion at work — something I’ve dreamed about — and I know I can’t take it because the extra travel will make it impossible for me to help out my dad as much as he needs. I feel trapped. I love my dad, but I feel like I’m really missing out on something good here.”
[0:50] Feeling trapped is a common caregiver feeling. I know that doesn’t fix your situation, but I want you to know that you’re normal for feeling that way. You can love your dad and be upset about missing out on a promotion.
[1:05] If you’re feeling trapped, there are some coping strategies you might try to see which works best for you. The first is making respite care a priority. Get some help so you can take time away from your caregiving role — have other family members pitch in, or have your dad pay for home care services.
[1:25] You can also reduce your caregiving load in general, not just during respite times. For example, can you get someone else to take on three weekly tasks so you can have that time back? Local senior service agencies can point you in the right direction for finding outside support so you don’t have to do it all yourself.
[1:50] Finally, having at least one thing you actively pursue outside of caregiving can be incredibly helpful. Maybe you’re training for a half marathon. Maybe you’re really into flower arranging. Find a hobby and make it a passion. You can’t pour everything into caregiving — and you shouldn’t. Pour your energy and talents into something else and you’ll start to feel less trapped.
[2:10] Like and subscribe for more caregiving advice.
