What do I do? I need more hours in the day.

Do you ever find yourself worrying about the future? How will I be able to take care of my parents and my own family? How will I be able to work full-time, spend time with my children and significant others, and be present for my parents when they need help? These are some questions and fears that often haunt me as a new caregiver for my parents. I find myself worried that I won’t be able to support my parents the way they have supported me and my grandparents.

What I’ve started to realize is that, no matter how much you worry or plan, life will always find a way to spice up the routine you have established. These curveballs may be unpleasant, but it will often introduce you to a side of yourself that you haven’t met before. Don’t be afraid, and continue to do what you are doing, solving each challenge at your own pace and adapting to this unpredictable thing we call life.

With that said, depending on where you live, there are actually quite a few programs out there that help people like us, pull through the unforeseen circumstances we encounter as family caregivers. The key is to start early and research about your area a little here and there. Below is an example of a state program offered by California to help family carers support their aging family.

In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) is a program that gives individuals who prefer to reside within the comfort of their own home, an opportunity to hire their loved ones to take care of them instead of sending them to a facility. Click on the button below to learn more about the program.