WHEN A CAREGIVER NEEDS TO STEP BACK

Home Instead Senior Care Southeast Houston provides resources that seniors need to remain independent at home, we hope that families can avoid some of the stress that goes with caring for an aging loved one – (281) 484-0200.

I’ve been my mother’s caregiver for over 10 years, since she suffered from a severe stroke in her late 70’s. Initially, I only cared for her on a part time basis, while I continued to manage my full time career and run a household consisting of 3 small children, and 1 husband who was frequently away from home on business trips.

When I began this process, the challenge was invigorating, but as time went on I started to cave under the pressure; with all my responsibilities compounded together, it was like working 3 full time jobs. When I started to have these feelings, I felt guilty; I knew my family needed me, and I didn’t want to disappoint them. So what did I do? I kept a stiff upper lip, and continued on. My immune system suffered from the stress I was feeling, and I seemed to have a constant illness I just couldn’t get away from; I wasn’t sleeping much, and I went through my daily routine in a daze.

It wasn’t until I stumbled in from my mother’s house late one evening, and collapsed into bed, only to be immediately disturbed by my 5 year old daughter, did I realize that something needed to change. I hadn’t even gone into my children’s bedrooms to kiss them goodnight, and instead of recognizing how much she missed my absence, I got upset because her appearance kept me from rest.

It was only later did I hear about the respite care Home Instead Senior Care in Southeast Houston delivers. If you are like me and need help, please call them at (281) 484-0200.