Worried about Mum-In-Law: Hi all. I'm... - British Heart Fou...

British Heart Foundation

54,644 members34,205 posts

Worried about Mum-In-Law

Mazria profile image
5 Replies

Hi all. I'm not sure where else to post so hope you don't mind me posting on here. I split from my husband 5 years ago but still have contact with my now ex Mum-In-Law. I think and worry about her every day. She was diagnosed last year with Congestive Heart Failure and was very weak at the time but with medication 'recovered' enabling her to have a better, although not great quality of life. She went from having carers in twice a day to being able to go out and do a bit of shopping herself. My ex has just told me today that she has become very weak again and short on breath and is back to having carers in twice a day. I am so upset and worried that something will happen to her, I know she's 89 years old and can't go on forever. but it doesn't make it any easier. My son ( her grandson ) is 14 years old will be absolutely devastated. I cant stop crying and worrying. My ex has moved on with someone else in his life but he doesn't get much support so I am worried about him to. I'm sorry but I feel totally alone and have no-one else to talk to :(

Written by
Mazria profile image
Mazria
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
5 Replies
MichaelJH profile image
MichaelJHHeart Star

Talk to your GP - if he cannot help he may be able to refer you for counselling. You will probably find that your son is tougher than you think - we always think of them as our children. With respect to your MIL you and your ex need to keep the situation under review. Although she has carers coming in sometimes 24x7 care in a care/nursing home is more appropriate. I have seen old people turn round in the right home as they are free from the worry they get prone to when nobody is around.

Mazria profile image
Mazria in reply toMichaelJH

Thank you for your reply MichaelJH. She can be stubborn and likes the comfort of her own home so all will be done I think to keep her there for as long as possible! I have been in touch with Age UK by email since my post to try and reach out to them. It's very awkward being an 'outsider' but still wanting to care for them both.

MichaelJH profile image
MichaelJHHeart Star in reply toMazria

Around 15 years ago before she went into care I had some issues with my late mother and did not find the two main charities for the elderly that helpful (this is my personal view). A colleague also found this with regards to his mother and an alumnus with his father. Some areas have support groups for the elderly that help with shopping, visiting to prevent loneliness, support and a listening ear, etc. There are also a number of carer support groups and these might prove useful to you.

Helen_BHF profile image
Helen_BHF

Hi Mazria - you're more than welcome to post about whatever is bothering you. I'm sure there's lots of people on this community that are worried for a family member or friend and will know exactly what you're going through.

I'm really sorry to hear that you're feeling this way. I'm sure there's not much I can say that will stop you worrying but if you're feeling really down please do get in touch with our heart helpline. They can be a listening ear if you don't feel you can speak to anyone else.

More details here bhf.org.uk/heart-health/how...

Really hope this helps. Take care.

Mazria profile image
Mazria in reply toHelen_BHF

Thank you so much for your comment Helen. I really appreciate your thoughts.

Not what you're looking for?

You may also like...

Worried about mum

Hi, I’m worried about my mother - she’s in her late 60s and recently found out she has very high...
BlueRabbit profile image

I’m new here. Worried about Mum. LVSD

Hello all, My Mum has today been told that she has left ventricular systolic dysfunction. She is...

Mum had heart attack yesterday

She is coming home Tuesday to me. Very weak but OK. Had balloon stent and a shock to get the heart...
Poorlymum profile image

Extremely worried about my daughter

I feel that my 21 year old daughter is being let down by our local cardiology services and we are...

Worried and awaiting diagnosis

Hi all, I'm new on here. My 20 year old daughter was fitted with a 24 hour ECG 2 days ago having...

Moderation team

See all
HUModerator profile image
HUModeratorAdministrator
Luke_BHF profile image
Luke_BHFPartner
Amy-BHF profile image
Amy-BHFPartner

Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.

Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.