Caring for elderly parents: How to get your siblings to help

In last month’s blog, we talked about ways to help your aging parents to accept help. Today, it’s about getting your siblings onside to participate, share the load and the expenses.



You’re such an alarmist - Mom can decide herself if she needs help.”

 Kathie’s mom is 85 and living alone. She speaks to her mom daily and visits every few days.

Her brother Gordon lives an hour away and talks to his mom a few times a month, usually on Sunday nights.

Kathie attends to her mom’s every need, and often has to miss work to take her mom to appointments or do errands for her. When she asks Gordon for help, he questions the need for all this assistance.

It’s simplistic to say that Kathie is panicking, and that her brother is in denial; Kathie is too close to the situation, and her brother too removed from it. And what about Mom herself? Chances are she’s also unwilling to face her limitations.

Rather than bickering, here are some practical tips:

If you still cannot agree on Mom’s requirements, consider an independent assessment by a social worker, nursing agency or LHIN and build a list of needs from their professional opinion.



“I’m always stuck doing things for Mom – why won’t my brothers help?”

Part of Kathie’s reaction may be resentment that her brother never offers any assistance with shopping, cleaning, medical appointments or support. Caregiving support typically falls to daughters, and often increases by default, until the daughter is near the breaking point. Sons are reluctant to provide hands-on care, and are unsure about contributing in other ways.

Here are some ideas:

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Related Articles:


Four signs your elderly parents need help at home


Caregiver resources


Caregiver guilt: Allowing ourselves to dream about the future


Emotionally needy parents


Senior Care Advisor






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