It’s inevitable, at some point a boundary will be crossed. When that happens it’s important to step back, take a deep breath, and ask why. Has something changed with your parents’ health? Are they being needy or is there a new need that you cannot meet?
If you’re angry or frustrated, get some space from the situation. Once everyone feels calm, sit down and discuss what happened and why. You may need to re-assert your boundaries or update the care plan.
Be firm but kind when reestablishing your limits. Sometimes the hardest part of keeping boundaries is forcing yourself to say no. Remember your limitations. You cannot provide proper care for either yourself or your parents if you’re stretched too thin.
If your parents need help that you cannot provide, look for community resources, like government agencies and non-profits, that might be able to help. The Family Caregiver Alliance has a state-by-state services map that can help you find local organizations.