Caring for My 90-Year-Old Mom Is My Full-Time Job

"I love my mom. That’s not the issue.

She raised me, fed me, stood by me through every dumb decision I made in my twenties. She was there. So when her memory started slipping and the stairs became a problem, it felt like a no-brainer. I moved her in with me. That was two years ago.

Now, I’m her caregiver."

Caring for an elderly parent is one of the most demanding, under-recognized jobs out there. It’s emotional. It’s relentless. And if you’re doing it solo or with limited help, it can completely consume your life.

That’s the part no one prepares you for — how much of you gets lost in the process.

The Hidden Costs of Caregiving

Caregiving isn't just a set of tasks. It's a constant state of alertness. From managing medications to dealing with mobility issues to handling memory decline, you're always “on.” And that chronic responsibility takes a toll — physically, mentally, emotionally.

Caregivers often experience:

Burnout: Constant fatigue, sleep disruption, and emotional exhaustion.
Isolation: Social plans get canceled. Free time disappears.
Career strain: Many reduce hours, shift roles, or leave jobs entirely.
Guilt: For wanting a break, for being frustrated, or for thinking about alternative care options.

And all of this happens while trying to do the right thing for someone you love.

You’re Allowed to Want a Life

Let’s be clear: wanting time for yourself doesn't make you selfish. It makes you human.

You can care deeply about your parent and still feel overwhelmed. You can love them and still need space. The goal isn’t to choose between their needs and yours — it’s to build a structure that considers both.

That starts with:

Setting boundaries: You’re a caregiver, not a martyr. Decide what’s sustainable — and what’s not.
Asking for help: Tap into community resources, support groups, respite care, or paid help if possible.
Talking about it: Bottling it up leads to resentment. Share with friends, a therapist, or others in the same situation.
Planning ahead: Don’t wait until you’re in crisis mode. Look into options now — assisted living, adult day programs, even rotating care with other family.

Care for Yourself Too

You’re not a machine. You can’t run 24/7 without breaking down. Whatever “self-care” looks like for you — a walk, therapy, sleep, a weekend away — start prioritizing it. Not someday. Now.

You’re Not Alone

If you’re in this, you don’t have to figure it out on your own. Support exists — it’s just not always easy to find.

At Geriatric Care Solutions, we are committed to offering tailored in-home care that addresses these challenges effectively. If you suspect that your loved one is struggling with judgment-related issues, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Contact us at 1-888-896-8275 or email ask@gcsolution.com for a consultation.