In 2013, teacher and author Stefania Shaffer released her second novel, 9 Realities of Caring for an Elderly Parent: A Love Story of a Different Kind. Stefania Shaffer incorporates her own personal experiences in committing to a caregiving role.
2. In 2013, teacher and author Stefania Shaffer released her second
novel, 9 Realities of Caring for an Elderly Parent: A Love Story of a
Different Kind. Stefania Shaffer incorporates her own personal
experiences in committing to a caregiving role.
According to Georgetown University's Health Policy Institute, grown
children make up 44 percent of blood-related caregivers to elderly
adults who need daily assistance. The transition into this role can be
a difficult one for adult children of any age, as the history of this
relationship can easily clash with the taking on of new
responsibilities. Many adult children find that it can be helpful as the
transition progresses to involve an aging parent in the caregiver's
daily lives, as this can help a parent see the child as an adult and
offer some shift in the relationship dynamic.
3. Caregivers may also take time to think about the
difficulties that aging parents may be experiencing, and
to be patient through the navigation of these changes.
A gratitude journal or other expression of positive
interactions can help both parties to navigate the most
challenging moments. These emotional struggles often
occur concurrently with logistical struggles, including
end-of-life financial planning, which can compound the
difficult nature of the transition for all involved. It is thus
important for the adult child to practice regular self-
care, so as to avoid burnout and stay healthy in his or
her role.