Session #: 718-310
Presenter(s): Barry Jacobs
Session Length: 2 hr. 00 min. Event: 2008 Networker Annual Symposium Date: March 13-16, 2008
Millions of baby boomers today are discovering that their parents are suddenly old, infirm, often cognitively impaired, and in need of their care. But when those parent-child relationships have been fraught with conflict and ambivalence, the physically exhausting work of family caregiving can become an overwhelming emotional challenge, too. Unfortunately, caregivers are notoriously loath to seek help for themselves, because they often feel guilty about focusing on their own needs when one or both parents are in such bad shape. In this workshop, we'll describe common family dynamics in such families, and examine specific ways therapists can ally with help-resistant caregivers while fostering a spirit of cooperation and appreciation between them and their ill or aged parents. We'll pay particular attention to helping adult siblings set aside old rivalries and work together on just and equitable caregiving plans for the benefit of Mom and Dad. Videotaped case illustrations with transcripts will be presented.
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