All caregivers need a break from their responsibilities from time to time—especially those who are caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia. But, not all caregivers have a large family or a robust support system to help them balance elder care and self-care.

When an elderly parent’s health begins to fail, one adult child generally assumes the role of primary caregiver. While this arrangement may work well for a time, it can eventually lead to resentment when you find yourself shouldering most of the burden—especially if other siblings live nearby and still don’t help out.

Even when family caregivers have access to help, many still come up with excuses to turn down assistance. Learning to accept support and assistance will ensure you can have a life apart from the needs of your care receiver.

If you have taken on the responsibility for your aging parent, you may be finding it a rewarding and very overwhelming experience. Over the past ten years, I have watched many friends take care of their aging parents, myself included. It often falls on just one child, either the one that lives the closest or he who steps up to the plate. It is often a very emotional blessing and a heavy burden. As a caregiver may feel overwhelmed, anxious or intimidated by some of the daily tasks they you must complete. Add in the guilt of uncertainty about all of decisions that you have to make for your parent. It is not easy.