Caring for a parent or parents can change the relationship within your family – emotionally, financially, physically, and socially. You may be a daughter, watching your parents caring for each other through a health crisis. You may be a young caregiver (www.youngcarers.ca) caring for your parent with a mental health problem or addictions. You may be a son anticipating caring for your father after your mother has died. You may be part of a network of siblings spread across the country working together to care for your parents.
Many issues may arise that are unique to children caring for their parents. While not necessarily part of your relationship up until now, it is important to talk about how the health of your parent concerns you and how you can help out. How your relationship evolves is important to the health and well-being of your parent. Talk and listen to your parents about expectations of each other. Their independence may be very important to them. Find out what resources are available to them in their community.
While there are issues that may be unique to you as a caregiver to your parent, other issues are similar to all caregivers. You are not alone! Check out the Caregiver Connect Guide and caring for your parent discussion for more information.