Agreed. It's better if everyone involved knows where you stand on caregiving and why.
There's been more hinting lately from family about doing some multi-generational living (aka caregiving). Everyone knows it's a hard NO from me and why. Once you've explained your reasons, you don't have to do it again.
SID, you never have to explain your personal choices.
No. It is a complete sentence. Giving any explanation can give whomever is trying to get you involved an argument point, whether it is valid or not, they want you involved and will do whatever it takes to reach their end goal.
Strong boundaries are required in situations like this. Decide what you will and will not do and remain strong in your decision.
You don't have to explain why you refuse to be a caregiver, but I think it's better if people do because this way no one can jump to conclusions and speculate which always leads to problems. Don't try to be mysterious. Just explain in plain language why you're saying no to caregiving if someone asks. If people don't like your reasons, then that's on them not you.
I always advise against any explanations; they only lead to argument. It is much better to simple say "I do not choose to be a caregiver and I do not wish to discuss it".
You set your own limits. You set your own boundaries. If you, for whatever reason, can not safely be a caregiver then you really are obligated to say no. You do not need to give anyone a reason but if a simple "NO" is not what you want to say you can say "I am sorry but I simply can not be a caregiver"
Oh, by the way when I said safely...safety does not mean just physical safety but mental, emotional safety.
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"No sorry, their care is beyond my ability to give."
There's been more hinting lately from family about doing some multi-generational living (aka caregiving). Everyone knows it's a hard NO from me and why. Once you've explained your reasons, you don't have to do it again.
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No. It is a complete sentence. Giving any explanation can give whomever is trying to get you involved an argument point, whether it is valid or not, they want you involved and will do whatever it takes to reach their end goal.
Strong boundaries are required in situations like this. Decide what you will and will not do and remain strong in your decision.
If you, for whatever reason, can not safely be a caregiver then you really are obligated to say no.
You do not need to give anyone a reason but if a simple "NO" is not what you want to say you can say
"I am sorry but I simply can not be a caregiver"
Oh, by the way when I said safely...safety does not mean just physical safety but mental, emotional safety.
Or like our parents use to do. "Because I said so, that's why!"
Any reason you may give, only gives a point to argue. You do not owe any explanation.
I'm sorry you must deal with the situation, and wish you strength.
If pressured more . “ No , I can not provide the care __( insert name ) ___needs .”