Making the commitment to care for your relatives in times of sickness can put a strain on some of your family relationships. Whether elderly grandparents, an invalid aunt or uncle or caring for your parents as their ability to live independently diminishes, you must ensure that you allow your relatives plenty of say about their schedules, level of care and method of care. You may find it helpful to make a schedule and trade off with other relatives so caring for loved ones is a family affair.
Step 1
Talk to your relative about the possibility of bringing in care. She may be resistant to the idea of having a family member caring for her. Talking about the arrangements can help her feel some semblance of control over the situation, notes the U.S. Bureau of Family Services. You can take time to assess the level of care necessary, and how many family members will be needed to help give care.
Step 2
Make a schedule for care with other family members and a home nursing service, if necessary. One family member cannot care for relatives on her own, and if the relatives need around-the-clock attention, a nursing service, live-in caregiver or other family members should be brought in to assist. If a nursing service is necessary, the family should discuss how it will be paid for.
Step 3
Allow the relatives receiving care to make decisions from day to day. Taking over the care completely and dictating their schedules, activities and medical care can make them feel upset and out of control. This could damage your relationship if they see you as the person perpetuating this shift in control. Make sure you converse with them often, depending on their level of coherency, so they always stay abreast of any decisions made.
Step 4
Facilitate a good relationship with your relative's doctor or home nurse so that you're always up-to-date on his condition and what is being done. Some doctors may be reluctant to share information, especially if you're not the child of the relative, but accompanying her to her doctor's appointments can help create a relationship where you are the trusted caregiver.
Step 5
Take frequent breaks when caring for a relative full time. The stress of the position can cause you to have bad feelings toward your relative, warns the Journal of Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology. You might feel stressed from the constant care your relative requires. Have other family members come and give you a break, or hire respite workers who can take over so you can have a day off, recommends the Bureau of Family Services.
