Elder Care - Shut Out of Family
by Fran
(Wisconsin)
I am oldest sibling but live 1000 miles from home town. My parents barely acknowledge me and my family because of the distance, and my siblings have excluded us from family gatherings and barely know my child. My parents say they do not want to be a burden, but my mother especially complains bitterly and constantly and refuses all assistance. It is dawning on me that they do not want me to be there for them and it makes me very sad. Two brothers are unwilling to help, one sister who is closest is resentful as she will end up as "chosen one", one other sister thrives on being the only one mother acknowledges. Crazy family at best, will only get worse. Should I just keep my distance or keep trying to be part of the family?