Talk about your feelings using “I” messages and
speaking from personal experience. Avoid “you”
sentences that might suggest blame or come across as
criticisms. That will only make people defensive and
angry.
Geography often dictates who will end up being
the main caregiver. If you live closest to your
parents, but don’t get along with them or don’t have
time to give, talk with your siblings about this
now.
If one parent is already ill, your healthy parent
is probably the main caregiver. But often, it is
this person whose health fails, leaving the family
stranded. Again, it’s vital to talk. Support the
primary caregiver, and have another option in case
something happens to her (or him).
If you know in advance that you are going to be
the primary caregiver or will be expected to offer
financial help, talk to your siblings about how this
might play out and what you will expect from them,
as well.
Source: Genworth Financial
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