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 wants to talk about — the most frustrating and challenging parts of caring for an aging family member, and how to get through it.
[0:25] “Here’s a question that touches on a sensitive subject: I’ve been caring for my mom for years. She is difficult most of the time. It’s really hard. I don’t even think I like her anymore. Is it okay to admit that?”
[0:28] Yes, you can admit that. I would say that many family caregivers can relate to this, especially as caregiving becomes more and more difficult. Aging, pain, chronic conditions, loss of independence, and other factors can make life more difficult for older adults, and they can start complaining more, needing more, and being grouchy. This can be grating.
[0:55] Saying it out loud — not to your parent, of course, but to a partner, therapist, or friend — is the first step in getting some relief. Consider attending a caregiver support group and saying it out loud again to a group of people who can relate and won’t judge. Listen to their strategies and how they cope. Say it out loud to your primary care physician as well. They might be able to adjust your current medications or treatment recommendations to support you more during this time as well.
[1:22] Remember, family caregivers have much higher rates of depression and anxiety than their non-caregiving peers.
[1:35] If you’ve experienced this, share your story in the comments — we read every one.
[1:45] And don’t forget to like and subscribe for more caregiving advice.
