Siblings with Aging Parents.

No one is ever prepared for their parent to become dependent because of illness or cognitive related disorders. It is something that may cross our minds as we grow older now and then, but it never gets a lengthy period in our thoughts. Why? Because we do not want to think about it. It is upsetting to think that one day the individuals that raised, cared, and loved us will start to decline physically or cognitively.

For elderly parents that want their children to be successful at caring for them, there are some things that you can do. First be prepared, plan it by filling out your Power of Attorney, Living Will and Estate Will. You can include them on the planning or when you have decided, have an open conversation with your adult children about it all. Discuss what role each one, if any, will have in the decision making of your health and your wishes. Discuss the estate so there are no surprises or anticipation of what will happen.

For the siblings: As children with different personalities, even though you were raised the same, every personality has a different perspective and thought process. The best thing you can do for your parent is to always get along and be understanding with your siblings. Life grows people into different directions with their thoughts and the way they process thoughts. Be understanding and accepting and it will create peace and support in a time when you need it most. Realize that you will not agree on everything

and the stress of caring for your parent can cause tension. We all have different lives in different places, and it was not by choice that one of us may not be around to help as much as another. Or that one may have a life with circumstances that will not allow too always be there. These tensions are not worth compromising your relationships with each other. Always keep the thought in your mind that our parents would expect us to always forgive each other as they did when we were young and had

disagreements. The health of your relationship with your sibling is an important dynamic to getting through this tough time.



John 13:34 Love one another. As I have loved you.