Elder Care: Sources of Stress and How to Cope

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• The need to respond to sudden crises
• Trying to care for a relative who lives in a different community
• Finding the time and energy to care or arrange for care
• Trying to find a balance between helping your loved one and letting him or her retain their independence
• Increased expenses
• Making decisions involving your relative's care, medical treatment, finances and living arrangements
• An increased potential for family conflicts
• Competing demands of work, family, elder relatives and outside interests
• Coming to terms with your loved one's declining health
• Conflicting emotions—wanting to help but resenting the time

• Become as informed as possible about your loved one's condition and about the available support.

• Learn how others have coped—join a support group.

• Share the responsibilities with family and friends.

• Seek out community agencies that provide services for seniors such as housekeeping, meals, transportation, friendly visiting, recreational activities and respite care.

• Relieve as much financial pressure as possible by ensuring your loved one is receiving all the financial benefits to which he or she is entitled.

• Investigate no-cost services.

• Reduce uncertainty about the future by making long-term plans.

• Eat well, exercise and make time for yourself.