Several of my friends are taking care of their elderly, ill mothers--they ask me for advice as they know I did the same for many years. They're frustrated, anxious, and, sometimes, overwhelmed from their duties and fear the future for themselves. The isolation of this lifestyle can contribute to feelings of hopelessness.
I implore them to get support through a nursing group that their mother's physician can connect them to. Elderly Services can direct them to groups in their community. When I was alone with my Mother's care, her MD's offered no suggestions--I looked in the phonebook for help. I learned that the Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, here on Cape Cod, works with people with chronic illnesses as well as terminal. But, I only found this out when I called them--they were an amazing support as were the Visiting Nurses.
My friends lament that their mothers don't want "strangers" around them...I hear this all the time. My Mother didn't either, but, as a "caregiver" you have to take control--it will sooth your anxiety and help the patient enormously. They'll be stimulated and assisted and you won't feel so alone with your responsibility.
