How To Balance Parenting, Work & Caring For Elderly Parents

 Millions of women around the world are trying to balance parenting, working, and caring for elderly parents. All of these commitments are difficult enough on their own. When you’re juggling all three, life can be tough. In this guide, we’ll explore effective ways to strike a healthy balance and ensure the best possible outcomes for your kids, your parents, and yourself. 

Image credit: https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-woman-embracing-her-grandmother-3768168/

Prioritize communication

Communication is crucial when you’re spinning multiple plates and tackling issues as complex and sensitive as raising young kids and caring for aging relatives. Try to be as open as possible with those closest to you. It’s hugely beneficial to approach the subject of care with your parents before you have to make difficult decisions. Talk about the options available to them, discuss their preferences and requirements, and work as a team with your siblings and other family members. Talk to those closest to you and be prepared to listen. From discussing parenting highs and lows with your partner to chatting about different care options with your sister, it’s important to share ideas, opinions, thoughts, and concerns. 

Consider all your options

Many people choose to care for their parents when they get older, but this is not the only route you can take. There are often better solutions, especially if you live far away, or you have limited time due to work and looking after your kids. In some cases, older people also need specialist care or services that you can’t provide at home. It’s wise to consider all your options, discuss them with your family, and research extensively. A memory care community may be a more suitable location for an elderly relative who experiences memory loss than a conventional retirement apartment or care home, for example. Take your time to gather information, view different accommodation options and facilities, and figure out what works best for everyone. 

Embrace self-care

It may seem selfish to prioritize self-care when you have other commitments, but the saying goes that you can’t pour from an empty cup. Caring for others is tiring, it can be mentally and physically exhausting, and it’s time-consuming. It’s essential to look after yourself as well as the ones you love. Try to get the basics right. Make sure you get enough sleep, eat well, and exercise regularly. On top of this, take breaks and make time for activities you love, socializing, and hobbies and interests. Small things like a weekly yoga class, an evening stroll with the dog, or a coffee with a friend on the weekend can make life much more manageable. 

Learn to say no

Many of us find it really hard to say no. The trouble is that if you try to please everyone and say yes all the time, your mental and physical health can suffer. It’s important to prioritize when your time is precious and to understand that there’s nothing wrong with turning down the occasional invite or saying no to overtime when you’re tired or you’ve been working long days for weeks. 

Picture from https://www.pexels.com/photo/woman-meditating-in-the-outdoors-2908175/

More and more of us are finding ourselves in the position of trying to juggle parenting, work, and caring for older relatives. This is a difficult challenge, which can often feel like a relentless roller coaster ride. To help you manage, key steps include prioritizing communication, considering different living and care options, embracing self-care, and learning to say no.