When conflict arises over caregiving responsibilities, it is often about an unequal division of tasks. Research has found that these conflicts are more common between sisters who assume the bulk of care responsibilities. It can be especially difficult when siblings have different perceptions of the parent’s needs. These differences commonly have to do with conflict over whether the parent should be placed in a nursing home or remain at home, regardless of the sacrifices the rest of the family must make.

Siblings may try to recruit the support of health care professionals involved in the parent’s care. Sometimes social workers, doctors, and nurses hear two separate versions of the home situation, making it difficult for them to make informed recommendations.

Siblings participate in caring for their parents in different ways and have their own style of caregiving participation when providing help. For additional information, visit Adult Sibling Relationships or Caregiving Is Different for Everyone.