Son, I dont want to see you get divorced because of me! Take me to a care home, please!
Six months ago, I brought my mother to live with us. Shes getting on now, eighty-three, and after losing Dad, shes found village life unbearably lonely. My own children are all adults and have moved out, so its just been my wife, Emma, and me in our two-bedroom flat. I told myself it wouldnt be too much of a change.
At first, Emma didn’t say much. But it only took a week before she started getting annoyed having Mum around. Gifts for Emma
Look, let her eat separately, after were done.
Why?
Its easier that way. I just lose my appetite watching her gum her food. Sorry, it puts me off.
Oh come on well all be old one day.
Thats different.
Emma couldnt stand Mums digestive troubles or the way she sometimes snored loudly. She started telling Mum to stay out of the kitchen, then eventually not to leave her room at all. One day, Emma said to me,
I didn’t think shed be here this long, honestly. I cant do it anymore.
So what are you suggesting?
Send her back to her village.
She cant manage on her own there.
Loads of people do! No ones children pander to them forever. Why should I feel like a stranger in my own home, putting up with all this noise and smell?
I was completely lost for what to do. But the other day, I came home from work and found Mum sitting in the hallway with her suitcase, all dressed up and ready to go.
Mum, what on earth are you doing?
Son, please take me to a care home.
Why Mum? Whats brought this on?
I dont want to see you and Emma fall apart because of me.
She keeps begging me. But I cant bear the thought of her sat there abandoned. Maybe I should just leave it all behind and move back to the village with her? I dont know what to do.
