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Elderly parents

Parents trying to foist sibling onto me

478 replies

TralalaTralalee · 08/10/2025 11:46

My sister is disabled and has never lived independently from our parents. I don’t get on with her (partly we’re just very different people, partly I find her weirdly intrusive and manipulative). There is no chance that I would ever become her carer, allow her to live with me, or take on responsibility for her care.

Now that our parents are ageing I’ve started offering to help them more, but often what they want help with is actually things for my sister - they have always done everything for her/wrapped her up in cotton wool, but I believe she is capable of doing these things for herself (or at least could do with support, and is eligible for help from local services to give her that support).

I feel like I’m going around in circles with them: they know I’m not close to my sister, I’ve said I’m not willing to help her with anything she can do for herself, I’ve said she must become more independent. But it’s still constant requests to do things for her and every time I say no they are upset.

Has anybody been through similar? Do I just keep saying no over and over?

OP posts:
thepariscrimefiles · 16/10/2025 08:19

llizzie · 16/10/2025 02:03

Did the disabled DS tell you that personally?

You are being deliberately obtuse.

OP has made her decision and is happy with it. All your suggestions about contacting Social Services about a care package can and should be done either by OP's sister herself (she is capable of doing this but just doesn't want to) or OP's parents.

You seem unable to be objective and you are projecting your own personal situation onto OP and her sister.

OP's dad is a bully and her mum just wrings her hands and facilitates him. Thankfully, OP has the support of her own DH and her other (male) siblings, who, surprisingly enough, haven't had any pressure put on them with regards to the care of their disabled sibling.

Allergictoironing · 16/10/2025 08:30

llizzie · 16/10/2025 01:35

On 8/10/25 you updated a post which included the sentence:

''I suppose I’m hoping for some kind of magical technique somebody else has found but maybe there just isn’t anything other than constantly repeating myself?''

I tried to give you my experiences as a disabled person, and tell you how I have managed to be independent of family and create my own care package, who I employ and how I managed it.

I meant well. Even independent as I am, I am not an island - as an 18th century poet pointed out.

I was attacked for my posts by people who have not offered much help, which is possibly why they turned on me. No doubt you have read the posts, and if they upset you, I am sorry for you,more so for them, though.

It is now 16/10/25 and I am still being castigated for those earlier posts. If I missed your subsequent posts where you said you have lost your job because of the situation, I am sorry. the fact is they are your family, and have asked you for help. The best help you can give now is to hand the problem to the Department of Social Services Adult Care. You can tell them what you have told us. In some cases, they could impose themselves on your DS and DPs if they visit.

You do not have to carry the burden alone. I think you would be wise to help them with a care package outside of the family. I just googled a question for Ai:

''ROLE OF SOCIAL SERVICES FOR DISABLED ADULTS UK'' I suggest it might help you It begins:

The role of UK social services is to safeguard vulnerable adults and children by providing support, protection, and care. They assess needs, connect people with resources like health and housing, and offer services for those with disabilities and so on... I believe the recent update of the Duty of Care allows them to insist on helping your DS.

I advise you to contact them in support of your DS. I suggest someone takes your DPs off on holiday somewhere while the assessment is made. I suspect your DS would very much like to order her own life.

Your local authority has the power to give grants - up to £30K for various things, and they can also reduce the property a Band, which reduces your Council Tax. There are other benefits, but they all usually have to go through social services first. I have a Band reduction, but for other equipment, I like to try Gumtree and eBay before I apply for help, for as long as I am able.

IF you had read the OPs posts in detail rather than castigating her for not doing enough, you would have seen that an assessment was arranged and the sister refused to take part. You also admit that you completely missed the post where the OP told us about losing a job (and a relationship) due to her sister's demands for constant attention.

TralalaTralalee · 08/10/2025 13:12
Social services has been alerted in the past, I believe by the GP, but my sister has refused to engage in the support services they offer. She doesn't want strangers coming in to help her with things, so instead our parents do that.

TralalaTralalee · 08/10/2025 18:13
^ ...^
And yes definitely - she wants a PA, she wants me to be at her beck and call. She wants to live with me and have my husband and children also helping to look after her.

A couple of other points. For someone so au fait with disability support, it seems a bit odd that you refer to the Department of Social Services Adult Care. Adult care is managed by a local e.g. County authority, not the Department of Health and Social Care (I work in this area, though not adults). If you're giving specific advice, please try to be accurate as what you wrote could be very misleading.

As a disabled person myself, at no stage have I noticed any postings I have found offensive from that point of view let alone close to a Hate Crime. However as someone with different beliefs to you, I find it very offensive on your part to keep trying to push your own on us.

Mydoglovescheese · 16/10/2025 08:33

I don’t think @llizziewill ever get why his/her posts are irrelevant and that he/she will continue to push their own agenda. May I suggest that in order to keep on track that we refuse to engage in any argument with him/her as it is completely derailing the thread. The OP needs constructive support for the difficult decisions made.

CrazyGoatLady · 16/10/2025 09:02

llizzie · 16/10/2025 02:01

Perhaps they don't upset you.

Upsetting to you does not equal hate speech. If you think there are comments that violate MN rules feel free to report them and let the moderators decide.

I have to say that there are posts on here which come very close to the Hate Act context of the overall Equalities Act.

No such thing as the Hate Act. If you're going to quote legislation at least get it right.

I understand that the OP not wanting to look after her disabled sibling/not feeling it is her responsibility, or responsibility to take on may be triggering to you as a disabled person who does need others to support and care for you.

I understand that to see others agreeing with the OP that she does not need to feel responsible for her sibling, or take on the care, would be triggering to you too, as you would not have wished for your own family to feel this way.

However, this is a public forum. Disagreement is to be expected. Disability doesn't mean you get to ban opinions that are personally triggering or upsetting to you.

A lot of us who have answered here are carers ourselves and our perspectives are equally valid. Nobody on here has said they hate disabled people or think they don't deserve care, compassion or support. The issue for OP's situation, as far as I see it, is not that her sister is disabled. None of us are suggesting that this is what makes the sister burdensome. The issue is that she is making herself a burden to her siblings by refusing to engage with care assessments, outside help, or any sort of future planning for when her parents can't take care of her any more.

I have been through this with my DGP. I can't describe how utterly helpless and stuck it makes me feel when she refuses everything, with the result that family have to turn our lives upside down to care for her, to the detriment of my own family, my job, any form of enjoyment I may have outside of my own work and home. Caring for someone isn't a default expectation, it's something that needs discussion, negotiation, mutual agreement and boundaries. None of that has happened in my situation and OP's sister isn't doing that either. It's not like her sister has had an accident, or something unforeseen has happened here. It's wilful engagement in manipulation, thinking that if no planning is done and all other help is refused, OP will have to pick up the care because poor sister, she's disabled and can't do anything for herself. Just because someone is disabled, elderly or ill, it does not give them the right to manipulate and emotionally blackmail others, or dictate their lives for them, or that they have an automatic right for their care to be provided in the exact way they want. Need? Yes. Want? No.

@llizzie - it doesn't sound like you have done any of these things, you sound very proactive, capable and determined to make your own choices about your care. Your example would be a great one for OP's sister of how things could be. But OP's sister isn't like you. She's been taught to be passive and has developed learned helplessness, thanks to OP's parents. It doesn't sound like she wants to become responsible for her own care and making her own choices. It sounds like OP would support her to do that and put it in place if she would engage. What OP is asking here is, given that her parents and sister won't engage, how can she disentangle herself and set clear boundaries. She's not asking how she could be of more help, as she's exhausted the options.

Most of us here who are or have been carers don't step back lightly - we only do it as a last resort, when we can no longer physically and/or mentally cope, or when we start to feel manipulated or coerced. It's not because we are awful, uncaring people and certainly not because we hate the disabled, old, or ill for being so.

NewYorkSummer · 16/10/2025 09:46

I think posters on here would do well to ignore certain other posters in order to stop derailing OPs thread. Replying is making no difference whatsoever. It’s also frustrating coming on for updates and having to wade through endless pointless posts.

TheBroonOneAndTheWhiteOne · 16/10/2025 09:49

llizzie · 16/10/2025 02:01

Perhaps they don't upset you.

I have not seen any.
I am disabled myself and am very used to seeing and challenging ableist posts on here.

I have not seen anything which either upsets me, or comes under the aegis of the Equalities Act on this thread.

TheBroonOneAndTheWhiteOne · 16/10/2025 09:50

llizzie · 16/10/2025 02:03

Did the disabled DS tell you that personally?

The OP did, and you're not seeing it for some reason.
The disabled sister isn't on this thread.

Don't be disingenuous.

TheBroonOneAndTheWhiteOne · 16/10/2025 09:56

NewYorkSummer · 16/10/2025 09:46

I think posters on here would do well to ignore certain other posters in order to stop derailing OPs thread. Replying is making no difference whatsoever. It’s also frustrating coming on for updates and having to wade through endless pointless posts.

You're right, and I apologise for engaging with the poster who is determined to derail the thread.

I shall scroll on by from now on.

CrazyGoatLady · 16/10/2025 12:45

TheBroonOneAndTheWhiteOne · 16/10/2025 09:56

You're right, and I apologise for engaging with the poster who is determined to derail the thread.

I shall scroll on by from now on.

Same here. I really felt I wanted to stick up for OP, and for other carers here who have posted. Utterly unfair to suggest anybody has been hateful. I'm AuDHD myself and like you, I see some posts on MN that are deeply problematic, it's absolutely not the case here. But am going to ignore and not engage from now on!

Hopingtobeaparent · 16/10/2025 16:25

Citrusbergamia · 13/10/2025 11:40

oh my goodness OP! Isn't your DH an absolute legend...keeping a list of items...HOW MANY?!?!?!?!? I am staggered at the amount of 'tasks' they asked you to deal with and not 1 of them can see how demanding they are of you?!!?

And your DB's absolutely have your back; which is wonderful to see/hear.

I'm so glad you have support from your DH and DB's as this could be a quagmire that would suck you in forever.

This! With bells on! 😂

Hopingtobeaparent · 16/10/2025 16:50

TralalaTralalee · 15/10/2025 16:45

That’s actually a really good point, thank you. I am definitely conditioned to see this as a problem for me and my brothers when you’re right, they don’t have to do anything even if I stop completely.

@TralalaTralalee

This has been a really interesting thread. You’re doing amazing!! You brothers and husband are amazing! (Keeping a list?! Genius!!! 👏🏻 and his response was great, as was those of both the brothers.

I think the new phone and number is a good idea. This will likely get worse before better.

Glad the niece didn’t get snared! 😳

Please keep us updated, it’s fascinating.

Future you is going to be very grateful of the bravery, and hard work, you are doing now!!

Your parents not wanting to accept outside support is their choice, not yours!!

Keep up the great work!!

Espressosummer · 16/10/2025 17:27

llizzie · 16/10/2025 02:01

Perhaps they don't upset you.

A post upsetting you does not make it hate speech. If it did then you would be the one most guilty of hate speech on this thread.

@TralalaTralalee you've done a really good job with standing up to your family. If you start to waver please lean on your husband and brothers as they seem to have the measure of the situation.

eeemes · 16/10/2025 19:56

One tactic that I think would help over the next 6 weeks when you say no to tasks that you know your sister can manage herself, would be to also refer her/them to which skills would be required for that particular task. It makes it clear that she has managed similar before and can do so again.

So “could you buy clothes online please?” Answer something like: “As I mentioned in my email, I am only available to help with XYZ type tasks until 30th Nov and this task is something DS is able to do herself. It requires the same skill set as when she researched and completed her assignments at uni, alternatively this can be achieved by DS using her substantial and proven logic and problem solving skills. If in doubt, type into Chat GPT asking for a clear set of instructions and DS will have a step by step list to follow”.

Or “could you make this appointment?” Answer: “As I mentioned in my email, I am only available to help with XYZ type tasks until 30th Nov and this task is something DS is able to do herself. It requires the same skill set as when she telephoned X that time previously, alternatively this can be achieved by DS using her substantial and proven logic and problem solving skills. If in doubt, type into Chat GPT asking for a clear set of instructions and DS will have a step by step list to follow”.

Ad nauseam…but only for the 6 weeks and then it should be just “Unfortunately, as I mentioned in my email, it is now after 30th Nov and I am no longer able to help with this”.

NellieElephantine · 16/10/2025 20:17

TheBroonOneAndTheWhiteOne · 16/10/2025 09:56

You're right, and I apologise for engaging with the poster who is determined to derail the thread.

I shall scroll on by from now on.

Same especially with that thinly veiled threat of I suspect it is because posters think as it is anonymous and no one knows them from Adam (I beg their pardon, it is in the Bible but still used today) they can give vent to their feelings against the disabled and tell us what they think of us.
It is only anonymous up to a point where the law can step in and find them.

🤨 would 'the law' really be interested in Internet randoms confirming to a woman, that no her choices aren't awful??

Orpheya · 16/10/2025 20:33

NewYorkSummer · 16/10/2025 09:46

I think posters on here would do well to ignore certain other posters in order to stop derailing OPs thread. Replying is making no difference whatsoever. It’s also frustrating coming on for updates and having to wade through endless pointless posts.

Basically.
Let them to hate their selves and move on

Enough4me · 16/10/2025 23:54

OP you've changed in a good way and can see and accept the situation in a different way. Previously you were caught in the drama triangle and pushed into being a rescuer. Your dad is the controller setting your sister up as the victim (it's a common set-up families can find themselves in, the roles can even switch around. Rescuers unfortunately enable the victim to be a victim).

Now you've stepped out of the triangle you won't go back in. Your dad will be angry then likely go through disbelief and may never be able to see the truth. Be prepared for him to be unable to see and accept he's wrong, but you can have a relationship with him away from talking about your sister.

You didn't create the situation, it is not your fault, thank goodness for you that you've stepped out of it.

TralalaTralalee · 17/10/2025 09:23

eeemes · 16/10/2025 19:56

One tactic that I think would help over the next 6 weeks when you say no to tasks that you know your sister can manage herself, would be to also refer her/them to which skills would be required for that particular task. It makes it clear that she has managed similar before and can do so again.

So “could you buy clothes online please?” Answer something like: “As I mentioned in my email, I am only available to help with XYZ type tasks until 30th Nov and this task is something DS is able to do herself. It requires the same skill set as when she researched and completed her assignments at uni, alternatively this can be achieved by DS using her substantial and proven logic and problem solving skills. If in doubt, type into Chat GPT asking for a clear set of instructions and DS will have a step by step list to follow”.

Or “could you make this appointment?” Answer: “As I mentioned in my email, I am only available to help with XYZ type tasks until 30th Nov and this task is something DS is able to do herself. It requires the same skill set as when she telephoned X that time previously, alternatively this can be achieved by DS using her substantial and proven logic and problem solving skills. If in doubt, type into Chat GPT asking for a clear set of instructions and DS will have a step by step list to follow”.

Ad nauseam…but only for the 6 weeks and then it should be just “Unfortunately, as I mentioned in my email, it is now after 30th Nov and I am no longer able to help with this”.

Thank you @eeemes I was actually doing that - maybe 10-15 years ago? I used to think that she just hadn’t learnt how to do “normal” stuff, because her disability had kept her reliant or she’d always been wrapped in cotton wool. So they’d ask me to do things, I’d write these detailed guides, and then she’d ask me questions every step of the way/get anxious and flustered so I’d take over and just do it.

We’re a long way on from that now - for the last few years I’ve just been refusing and saying “She doesn’t need help with that”, “You can do that for yourself”, “It’s not hard, just google it and you’ll be fine” over and over again. I originally started the thread because I was looking for some magical technique to cut out these repetitive conversations!

Thank you all for the continuing support. I’ve had my first session with a therapist (we get online sessions as part of staff welfare), basically I spent the whole hour just ranting about ridiculous examples of things they want me to do. She ended up saying that she can see I have a lot of built up anger and hopefully we can work on letting some of that go.

My parents and sister are suspiciously quiet, I assume some kind of “emergency” or upset is brewing.

OP posts:
eeemes · 17/10/2025 09:28

you really have tried everything within your power, and it sounds like you can’t, and shouldn’t, do any more. I wish you the very best of luck. I hope once the FOG (fear, obligation, guilt) clears, with the help of therapy, you will feel much more at peace. But they’re definitely not going to make it an easy ride for you. Respect and strength to you.

TheBroonOneAndTheWhiteOne · 17/10/2025 09:35

My parents and sister are suspiciously quiet, I assume some kind of “emergency” or upset is brewing

Just don't answer your phone to them.

Citrusbergamia · 17/10/2025 10:01

"My parents and sister are suspiciously quiet, I assume some kind of “emergency” or upset is brewing."

oooo I think that's a given.

The devil 😈in me would want to ignore my phone, let it go to voicemail where I've left the message 'Hi, can't get to the phone right now as I'm exercising my boundaries so use Chat GBT/learned skill set for whatever you want me to do'... Childish I know but needs must.

Hope the counselling helps you OP.

Allergictoironing · 17/10/2025 10:16

TheBroonOneAndTheWhiteOne · 17/10/2025 09:35

My parents and sister are suspiciously quiet, I assume some kind of “emergency” or upset is brewing

Just don't answer your phone to them.

She can't answer her phone to them anyway @TheBroonOneAndTheWhiteOne - her DH will have her phone and will be checking all calls from them in the near future 😆😆😆

TheBroonOneAndTheWhiteOne · 17/10/2025 10:17

Allergictoironing · 17/10/2025 10:16

She can't answer her phone to them anyway @TheBroonOneAndTheWhiteOne - her DH will have her phone and will be checking all calls from them in the near future 😆😆😆

Ah yes!
Very sensible DH.

crispycrust · 17/10/2025 10:27

Divert their calls to answerphone. Mute WhatsApp and FB Messenger. Switch off phone every evening when you arrive home.

Silence is really powerful. No reaction - just a deafening silence.

Orpheya · 17/10/2025 18:12

OP, stop thinking about their < emergencies > - you have an internal emergency, a deep seated anger. It will eat you up!! Take care and stop being such a walk over because, sorry but you are, yes you are

Orpheya · 17/10/2025 18:14

I have my own story of my father calling to just tell me crap. He did not want care in particular, he wanted me to go and finish a degree which was not for me so I can find that glamourous job which would give him credit. He literally turned his whole life into that hysteria. I moved countries and finally blocked him on all channels.

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