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It’s true, women are naturally nurturing. Still, being kind and caring are characters that are not gender specific. Males also posses the ability to nurture and care for their elderly parents. This duty is not just a job for women. Men also have to assume the role of caregiver for parents who are unable to take care of themselves. Not all men have the option to put their parents in a nursing home or hire a personal nurse. So when duty calls, they have to accept the responsibility to protect and provide for their needy parents.
Caring for the elderly is a full-time job in itself. It’s time-consuming and energy draining. When the care is being given to ones own parents, emotional burdens stemming from the close bond shared, makes the process twice as hard. And when males have to assume this care-giving role, complications associated with the task seem to intensify. Dealing with two parents is inevitably more hectic than dealing with one, but with the right approach it is manageable.
For males, the pressure may increase when it’s time to deal with issues relating to personal hygiene. A sponge bath is the last thing any son would want to give his parents–especially mom. Yet, when circumstances call for it, his love for his mother and father will cause him to humble himself and do what he must. Pride must be pushed aside so a willing heart can take over and get the job done. “Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you.” (1 Chronicles 28:20)
If you are a son who’s also a caregiver for your senior citizen parents, and you’re wondering how you can make things better, here’s how.
Tips For Male Caregivers
Request Assistance and Share Duties
Don’t be afraid to request help. I know you’re macho and strong, but you can’t do it all alone. Have family members and friends get involve.
Join a Support Group
Being surrounded by people who can relate to what you’re going though will make a difference in your mental and emotional health, while attending church can improve your spiritual health.
Have Hobbies
Don’t be consumed by your care-giving role. Learn to take time away to unwind and be engaged in activities you enjoy.
Visit The Doctors
I know you hate doctor visits. But if you refuse to go, who will take care of your parents?
Just remember that we are to honor our father and mother in the sight of God (Ephesians 6:2) So always be respectful and do the best you can. What is the hardest part of caring for your elderly parents?
Whether male or female, children have the responsibility to take care of their elderly parents. But for males in particular, they can still do a good job especially if they can be surrounded by people who are willing to help them on the task. If assistance can be afforded, then might as well get a care worker to support as well.
Thank you for commenting Bluebird! You are right, both males and females ought to take care of their elderly parents. Still, not everyone can afford care workers, so some just really have to be brave and strong and take on the task. With God all things are possible however! Thanks again.
Thoughtful article – thanks, Amelia!
Your welcome Emily! Glad you enjoyed it 🙂