Most parents will say they love and treat their children equally, but this equality often becomes
questioned by siblings through the years. At some point, many adults who were
raised in families with one or more siblings have considered that at least one
was their parents’ favorite. Siblings may discuss this topic among themselves
and even with parents, especially when they feel they have been treated unfairly.
But, when a parent becomes ill, the tensions relating to these feelings can
create added stress to an already challenging situation.
This scenario is an example
of adult sibling stress that you may have witnessed yourself on some level if
you work with patients. Rosa is the primary caregiver for her mother. She lives closest to her mother, while three other adult children live in the city. Although Rosa has a job and
family of her own to look after, she is the sibling caregiver who visits her
mother at the nursing home most and who handles decisions. Although other siblings
visit periodically, Rosa often feels frustrated and taken advantage of by them.
They all say they have busy schedules as if she has no life of her own. But
nobody frustrates her more than Eddie, the youngest sibling. He assumes that
his other siblings should take care of his mother because they are better at
that. Eddie says, “I just can’t deal with seeing Mom suffer.” Eddie is the
perceived favorite child. His mother often asks about how he is doing and makes
excuses for his not visiting her more. She has always babied him. Rosa still cringes
when her mother makes excuses for Eddie while barely recognizing her caregiving
contributions.
Research on adult siblings
indicates that parents’ declining health can greatly
impact sibling relationships,
particularly regarding who does the most caregiving and who is perceived as the
favorite. The resulting tensions can have a negative impact on the quality of
life of patients and siblings. Clearly, primary caregivers need support of
other siblings, including those who live out of town. These details should be discussed openly and
resolved with assistance if needed. Solutions are often easier said than done.
Readers’ suggestions are welcome.
This video features a primary
caregiver sharing her concerns about caregiving from siblings:
Frances Shani Parker,
Author
Becoming Dead Right: A Hospice Volunteer
in Urban Nursing Homes is available in paperback and e-book
editions in America and other countries at online and offline booksellers.
