The couple is fortunate if they have a long history of problem solving. If possible, they can renegotiate their roles in marriage. Feelings of sadness and frustration can make changing roles more difficult, but new skills can provide a feeling of accomplishment for both. Instead of criticism, Wilson encourages the ill or disabled partner to offer praise and encouragement if the care-giving spouse makes mistakes while learning to drive, balancing the checkbook, cooking, or doing laundry. She said it is equally important that the caregiver expresses appreciation for contributions the ill partner is able to make.
Many caregivers find that they harbor strong feelings of resentment or guilt.
Sometimes these feelings lead to excessive caregiving, which might promote dependency and even prevent the ill person from making progress in recovery. Caregiving doesn't make you a saint. Wilson also warns of overexposure. A lot of people forget they ever had their own space and activities. Try not to let both worlds become too narrow.