People are living longer now, thanks to modern medicine. This means that many married couples will end up living with and caring for their aging parents at one point or another.

Caring for aging parents can put a lot of emotional, physical and financial strain on a marriage. Caregivers often feel guilty for not being able to do more for their parents while at the same time feeling angry for having to set aside their own needs. If they are not careful, their marriage can crumble under the added stress and mixed feelings.

Talk to Someone

For a caregiver, having someone to talk to can make all the difference between a thriving marriage and a struggling one. Counseling is especially important for the primary caregiver who is shouldering most of the “burden.”

A counselor listens while you vent and offers suggestions on creating appropriate boundaries and expectations between you and your spouse, and the loved one for whom you are caring.

If you are currently caring for a loved one or expect to assume such responsibilities soon, it is a good idea to enlist the help of a marriage counselor.

Connect with Other Couples
There are many other couples who are taking care of their elderly parents so you’re not alone in this situation. Connecting with them can be a wonderful source of support that eases your stress. Just talking to someone who’s in a similar situation as you can be very encouraging.

Join a Support Group
As the health of your loved one fails, you’ll have to make some difficult decisions. Being part of a local support group can help you get through these emotionally trying times.

Seek Divine Wisdom & Strength
There is no better place to find strength than in God. Jesus invites us to bring all our cares and burdens to him. He knows what worries and overwhelms you; so share everything with him.

Opening your home to aging parents can be a tremendous blessing because it keeps them from spending their remaining years in an adult care facility. However, you will encounter some challenges along the way. Talking to a counselor and other couples who are in a similar position can keep your marriage from crumbling under the pressure of being a caregiver.