Mom and Dad know that they will live in a nursing home.  There is no other option for me

Mom and Dad know that they will live in a nursing home. There is no other option for me

– I have the impression that some people treat the care of parents as a “duty” of children, which for me is a total absurdity. Why should someone against their will take on such a task, which often requires so many sacrifices? – writes Karolina in a letter sent to our editorial office.

Caring for elderly parents is a subject in Poland that evokes many extreme emotions. I have the impression that some people treat it as a “duty” of children, which to me is totally absurd. Why should anyone, against their will, take on such a task that often requires so many sacrifices? I understand that some people want to take care of their parents and cannot imagine placing them in a nursing home, but let them not impose their opinion on others, do not criticize or condemn their choices.

People say: “No nursing home can replace a family”, “If you love someone, you don’t send them to an old people’s home”… Has anyone ever thought about what it takes to care for the elderly, how much time it takes, work and how does it affect mental health? In my opinion, proven nursing homes are the most comfortable solution for both parties. There are hardly any taboos in my family and for as long as I can remember my position on this matter has been clear. Both mum and dad know that if they are no longer independent, they will live in a nursing home. There is no other option for me. However, they do not mind, on the contrary, they themselves say that they do not want to be a burden to anyone.

It’s sad that so little is said about it in our country, and when someone decides to openly admit that they are not going to take care of their parents when they need it, they face an avalanche of criticism. Sometimes it is worth considering that each of us has the right to live in our own way. Let’s respect each other and our opinions, even if they are completely different – then everyone will surely live better.

Carolina

***

Your stories are important to us. We welcome letters and comments. Write to us at: woman@agora.pl. We will publish the most interesting lists.

Source: Gazeta

You may also like

Immediate Access Pro