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caregiver tension

How do you cope when there is tension between you and an elderly family member who live in the same house?
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Avatar universal
Try not to take anything mean or bad that the elderly person says to you too seriously.  This person is obviously not able to care for themselves and just having to rely on another to care for you can be degrading.  This person may have some anger due to their health and circumstances and you're there so it gets taken out on you.  Think of how you would feel in their position and work from that angle.  Try to find something the two of you have in common to do or just talk about.  You have to feel bad for the situation this person is in, and I don't feel anything is said or done purposely....they're just lashing out.  Know it's not personal and always be the better person by not allowing their actions to get to you.  Maybe once he/she sees that you are going to be nice no matter what they say or do, it will no longer benefit them to not get along with you. Below is one of many sites that offer advice on caring for an elderly person and all that can go along with it.  I hope this helps and take care.

http://www.communitycarehhs.com/pdfs/difficult-elderly-people.pdf

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Check to see if there are support groups in your area for care givers. I do understand how stressful this can be. You are taking care of a family member, but you have to take care of yourself too. Mentally and physically. You can check in your phone book, the internet, your Dr or local hospitals to find a support group.
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