You have become a family caregiver. Your elderly mother has relied upon you for her safety and well-being for quite some time. In recent weeks, though, her behavior has become overwhelmingly challenging for you.

Increased Stress Level

When you first agreed to help her out, you couldn’t imagine the kind of stress you feel now. Maybe, in the beginning, you saw this as an opportunity to repay her for everything she did while you were growing up, during your rebellious teenage years, and during your early adult life when you made several mistakes. She had supported you through every single one of those moments, and you felt like it was your responsibility to do the same thing for her.

Now, though, some of her behaviors are causing you not just concern but anxiety.

She may be arguing with you. She might be calling you names, throwing things at you, or being obstinate and ornery. It is certainly frustrating and is creating a tremendous amount of extra stress, frustration, and anxiety in your life. That caregiver stress is starting to impact your work, your marriage, your friendships, and many other aspects of your life.

How can you avoid this situation?

You need to consider outside support. When you look into the prospect of hiring a home care aide to work with your elderly mother, you can separate yourself from the daily rigors that can be causing a tremendous amount of friction and tension in your relationship.

Your mother may wish to be doing certain things and you might be discouraging her because of safety concerns. You have her best interest at heart, but far too often family members are too close to the situation and have a tendency to focus more on safety than the quality of life.

An experienced home care aide can provide a great deal of support and comfort for your mother while also keeping her safe. That experienced caregiver may also encourage her to pursue certain activities you might consider unrealistic or even potentially dangerous.

Your mother is a fully independent and capable individual who may require physical assistance. She has the right to determine what she does, where she goes, and with whom she spends time.

The challenging behavior you’re experiencing from your mother may be a direct result of frustration she’s experiencing because you’re not listening to her wishes. When you step back and call on the support of a home care aide, you may see your relationship improving with her once again.

If you or an aging loved one are considering in-home caregivers in Dallas, TX, please contact the caring staff at Assisting Hands of Preston Hollow today at (214) 760-6944.