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3 Signs Life as a Caregiver Is Hurting Your Relationship with Mom

Caregivers in River Oaks TX: Here are three signs you might look for that could very well indicate your life as a caregiver is having a negative impact on your relationship with your elderly mother.

Caregivers in River Oaks TX

Caregivers in River Oaks TXHow much of an impact is being a family caregiver for your mother affecting your relationship with her? It’s an important question people should ask, especially if they have concerns their relationship is on the decline.
There could be a number of reasons why your relationship is hurting with her right now. It could have nothing to do with you, but more with her. It might have everything to do with you and nothing to do with her. It could be health issues, a lack of exercise, or extreme stress you may be experiencing as a caregiver.

Below are three signs you might look for that could very well indicate your life as a caregiver is having a negative impact on your relationship with your elderly mother.

Sign #1: You’re fighting a lot.

If you and your mother are constantly fighting, that’s not a good sign. Maybe this is not unusual for your particular relationship. However, lately those arguments have become more personal. Perhaps she’s calling you names, telling you how much she doesn’t want to see you, or you are getting so frustrated you keep reminding her she could be without any help at all.

If you’re fighting a lot, take a look at the stress you are experiencing as a caregiver. Your mother may also be undergoing a tremendous amount of stress.

Sign #2: She won’t answer the phone.

When you get home, you may get in the habit of calling her to make sure she’s okay. If you do, but she’s not answering the phone, what could that mean?

Maybe she doesn’t want to talk to you. Maybe she’s become so frustrated that another phone call is only going to lead to another argument. If she’s not answering the phone, it’s probably going to make you even more stressed and that’s not a good sign.

Sign #3: She tells you not to bother.

If your mother is telling you not to bother with her, don’t worry about her, but she’ll take care of herself, is pretty good sign that your relationship with her is damaged. Stress can do that to a relationship.

You may feel the effects of stress as a family caregiver, but don’t discount how much stress your mother may be under as well. When you’re able to step back and analyze a situation, you may notice how stress is affecting your relationship.

If it is, consider hiring an experienced home care aide instead.

If you or an aging loved one are considering caregivers in River Oaks, TX, please call the caring staff at At Your Side Home Care. We will answer all of your senior care questions. Call today: (832) 271-1600.

Donna Wrabel, LMSW

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