Siblings
Siblings may experience changes in relationships when adult children find themselves making decisions and sharing caregiving responsibilities for parents. During times of stress, old rivalries may emerge. Research shows that as siblings mature into adulthood, childhood rivalries tend to be set aside, but old hurts and resentment may be revived in times of stress. This may become a source of disagreement in some families.
Relationships may be affected by age, gender, geographic location, economic status or other issues. Research shows that usually older daughters become the primary caregivers. But in some cases, the responsibility falls to the sibling living nearest to parents or to the person who seems to have more time or resources.
This is a time when it is important to put aside old differences and work together as a family. The primary caregiver needs family support.