When Dad Becomes the Caregiver: A Father’s Day Reflection on Love, Legacy, and Letting Others Help

Father’s Day is a time to celebrate strength, resilience, and the quiet sacrifices dads make for their families. But for many older men, this season brings a deeper reality into focus—one where fatherhood takes on a new form: caregiving.

More and more men are stepping into roles once considered “women’s work,” caring for aging spouses, siblings, or even their own elderly parents. At Kimbrough Law, we’re seeing this shift firsthand. Robin Lacrimosa, our Life Care Coordinator, has observed a growing number of older men reaching out for help—not only with legal and financial matters but also with the emotional and physical demands of caregiving.

“Men who never thought they'd be caregivers are now bathing their spouses, managing medications, and attending doctor appointments,” says Robin. “Many are overwhelmed, but they’re showing incredible commitment. And they’re starting to realize they don’t have to do it all alone.”

When a Spouse Has Dementia

One of the most profound caregiving challenges comes when a spouse develops dementia. For men, especially those who grew up in generations where emotions weren’t freely shared, the experience can be both isolating and devastating.

Watching a partner slowly disappear while still physically present is heartbreaking. Many men feel helpless, unsure how to manage day-to-day care while also coping with grief, financial planning, and their own declining health.

Robin notes that while many of these men initially try to "power through," they often reach a tipping point where support becomes not just helpful—but essential. “We’re seeing more men open up in caregiver support groups. They’re starting to understand that vulnerability is not weakness; it’s strength.”

The Silent Weight of Responsibility

Caregiving takes a toll. Studies show male caregivers are at higher risk for depression, cardiovascular issues, and burnout. They often delay asking for help, either because they don’t know where to start or because they feel they should be able to handle it on their own.

But caregiving doesn’t have to be a solitary journey.

At Kimbrough Law, we help caregivers—men and women alike—navigate the legal, financial, and emotional complexities that come with long-term care. Whether it's updating an estate plan, applying for Medicaid or VA benefits, or finding the right care resources, we help lighten the load so families can focus on what matters most: love, dignity, and peace of mind.

5 Things Older Men Should Do If They Find Themselves Thrust Into a Caregiving Role

1. Get Legal and Financial Affairs in Order. Ensure your spouse has a financial power of attorney, an advance directive for healthcare, and an updated will or trust. It’s also time to review your own.

2. Join a Caregiver Support Group. Talking to others in the same boat can be incredibly validating. You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself.

3. Take Care of Your Health. Caregiving is physically and emotionally draining. Prioritize sleep, nutrition, and medical check-ups. If you’re not healthy, you can’t help anyone else.

4. Ask for—and Accept—Help. Let family, friends, or professionals assist with errands, meals, or respite care. It’s okay to delegate.

5. Work with a Life Care Planning Team. A coordinated approach—legal, financial, and care-focused—can help you prepare for what’s ahead, protect your assets, and make confident decisions.

   
   

This Father’s Day, let’s honor the men who are quietly shouldering caregiving responsibilities with strength and grace. If you or someone you love is walking this journey, help is just a phone call away.

📞 Contact Kimbrough Law at 706.850.6910 to schedule a consultation with our Life Care Planning team. We’re here to support you every step of the way.