Husband Reaches Breaking Point After Years of Caring for Wife’s Uncle Without Help

A man has been caring for his wife’s uncle for years and is mentally and physically exhausted since his wife and family won’t help him. He has cared for his stroke-stricken cousin for almost two years. Getting a nursing assistant license allowed him to help her at home all the time. Despite his requests, his wife and her sister, who recently moved in to pursue her nursing degree, have not helped him.

He works long hours and takes care of others, so he has little leisure time. His only vacation in two years was four. He worked while earning his cybersecurity master’s. People expected him to work when he was unwell, like with the flu. They didn’t want him to clean.

If her sister didn’t leave by year’s end, his wife threatened to leave and put his uncle back in a care home. He’s exhausted. He stated the tension was too much and wondered whether he was a bad guy for wanting to work and spend time with his wife.

Many US families are exhausted from full-time caregiving for elderly or disabled relatives, according to experts. Doing everything alone without support or appreciation is hard. His fatigue shows that families need balance, shared duties, and respect.

He has cared for his wife’s uncle for years, but his fury suggests that they don’t get along or converse. Marriage experts recommend discussing and planning care decisions so one partner doesn’t feel alone or worried. He must rest, work, and return home. Don’t call him selfish.

Sources:
Dear Abby advice column, U.S. caregiver burnout studies, family relationship counseling insights