The Care Receiver's World: Don't Smother!
Wednesday, April 12, 2023
Living Free Every Day®
A ministry of LivingFree.org
Today's Scripture
"Do to others as you would have them do to you." Luke 6:31 NIV
Thoughts for Today
When your parents face a limitation, regardless if the situation is a result of age, illness or injury, you might find that you have a natural tendency to smother them with help. This has been called the Let Me mentality: Let me do that!
Knowing our parents' limitations, we naturally want to help by doing things for them. Although these gestures may seem like the right thing to do, sometimes they are unnecessary and even demoralizing.
Consider this …
Have you ever wondered why so many older people resist assistance from family members? Many people think the answer is that older people can be stubborn or set in their ways. While these things can be true, perhaps more often they are just afraid of losing control of their lives.
You mean well when you jump in and try to do things for them—and sometimes, of course, this is necessary—but it is so much better for them to do everything they can for themselves. Before jumping in so quickly to come to their aid, imagine yourself in the same situation. And then … do, or don't do, unto them what you would want done, or not done, for yourself.
Prayer …
Father, I know I sometimes jump in too quickly to do things for my parents. Help me understand their feelings better by imagining myself in their situation and responding accordingly. Help me remember that even though I might be able to do this task more quickly, or better, it is important for them to do all they can. In Jesus' name …
These thoughts were drawn from … Caregiving: Caring for Aging Parents by Charles Puchta. The purpose of this curriculum is to provide hope and direction to those concerned about the health and well-being of aging parents or an ill spouse or relative. We address predominate issues most families face. Each session is designed to discuss a specific area of concern such as the purpose of a caregiver or end-of-life planning. It will become clear to participants that the Bible provides encouragement and direction to help them through this caregiving journey. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a study for individuals or couples.
PO Box 22127 ~ Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421 ~ 423-899-4770
©Living Free 2020. Living Free is a registered trademark. Living Free Every Day® devotionals may be reproduced for personal use. When reproduced to share with others, please acknowledge the source as Living Free, Chattanooga, TN, www.LivingFree.org. Must have written permission to use in any format to be sold. Permission may be requested by sending an e-mail to [email protected]
