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The challenges of co-existing with siblings are well documented – from the temperamental daughters in Shakespeare’s King Lear to The Kardashians of reality TV.
provide emotional support. A wellmeaning sister might make impulsive decisions about money that can have disastrous long term impact. The scenarios are endless.
Rarely is it more fraught than when family members are trying to help an older parent navigate the lifestyle changes associated with aging. Selling a family home, giving up the car, choosing a retirement community, deciding on care options or end of life decisions can train family relationships, often beyond repair.
“Every family is different, and their dynamics reflects these differences,” said Michele Schreer, LMSW, Director of Independent Living at The Osborn, the non-profit continuum of care community in Rye, New York. She helps residents and their families work through these issues when one or both parent’s health begins to decline. “These dynamics usually surface when there is a crisis and the parent needs their children for support.”
A disengaged brother may suddenly appear on the scene and expect to be a hero. A financial expert may view the situation through a professional lens, but might not have the empathy needed to
COMING OF AGE | 13
