Caring for an Aging Parent When You’re an Only Child

Being an only child has its fair share of pros and cons. Since you do not have any siblings, you get full moral and financial support from your parents. When you were still a child, we’re fairly certain that you got more toys than those with siblings. You may even have a better inheritance than them too.

However, being an only child is tough and has its challenges. The most apparent disadvantage of being an only child is loneliness. It can be hard not to have any siblings to play with during your childhood years. 

Now that your parents are not getting any younger, you have come to a point in your life that it is your turn to take care of them. As an only child, it seems daunting to face this challenge alone. However, you don’t need to worry. We’ve prepared three powerful tips to help you take good care of your parents on your own. 

Tips to consider when taking care of aging parents

It is okay to ask for help

According to Dr. Susan Newman, author of “The Case for the Only Child: Your Essential Guide,” an only child should not bear the responsibility alone. It is okay to ask for help from your relatives and friends. You can always seek medical and moral advice from doctors and professional caregivers as well.

The author of “Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories,” Ms. Carol Bradley Bursack, recommends hiring a geriatric case manager for those who live far from their parents because of employment or other reasons. A senior case manager is a professional in Aging Life Care. They can coordinate local services that can assist your aging parents. Bursack further added that an only child could hire home-based health aides and get in touch with Meals on Wheels. The delivery person from Meals on Wheels can also check and monitor the parent. They can report to the manager or the child if case problems might arise.

Have some “me” time

Caregiving is a stressful responsibility, especially if you do not have any siblings to share the burden with. You can’t just let yourself get drawn into stress and pressure. Bouncing back and re-energizing now and then should also be your priority. Engage yourself with activities that make you feel alive, like meditating, exercising, doing yoga, shopping, and even taking a vacation for a couple of days. You can also join a support group so that you won’t feel alone.

You do not have to feel guilty if you want some time off from caregiving. Your parents do not want to see you suffering. They would surely love to see you enjoying life too.

Be organized

Compile all your parents’ important documents. Get a hold of their finances, including their retirement, pension, and insurance benefits. Prepare necessary documents in case something might happen to them. You should always plan ahead and be prepared, especially when your parents are over 65 years old.

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