How to Handle Sibling Conflict in Caregiving — with life transitions expert Dr. Amy D’Aprix

When it comes to caring for aging parents, siblings can be the hardest part.

You might agree on everything for years, and then suddenly you’re facing decisions about care, money, or where your parent should live and nothing feels simple anymore. Old dynamics resurface, tensions build, and conversations that should bring you together can start to pull you apart.

In this episode of The Hart of It All, Teri sits down with family dynamics expert Dr. Amy D’Aprix to unpack why caregiving can turn siblings into what she calls “business partners you didn’t ask for” and how to navigate it without damaging the relationships that matter most.

This episode is for you if you’re feeling frustrated with a sibling, carrying more than your share of the caregiving load, or unsure how to have conversations that don’t spiral. It’s also for you if you want to get ahead of conflict before it starts.

Dr. Amy brings clarity to what can feel incredibly messy, sharing practical ways to start honest conversations, find common ground, and ask for help without resentment taking over. You’ll also hear about the “40–70 rule” for starting these conversations earlier than most families do, and why it’s never too late to begin.

Because caregiving doesn’t just impact your parents. It shapes the relationship you’ll have with your siblings long after they’re gone.

Resources:

Download Dr. Amy's Caregiving Task Planner: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ux37Nh2tbFheByEXYTybn2S88wGR6MDM/view?usp=sharing

Download Dr. Amy's "Essential Conversation Process" Guide https://drive.google.com/file/d/14l0w2UKGEOl8bGD18Z-KUdIyIg3OuMIn/view?usp=sharing

Follow Dr. Amy D'Aprix: Website: https://www.dramy.life/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dramydaprix

To watch this episode, subscribe to The Hart Of It All's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHartofitAllPod

Follow The Hart Of It All: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehartofitallpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehartofitallpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehartofitallpod

Follow Teri Hart: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terihart

Co-Executive Produced by: Carrie Hayden & Jess Carroll of 6of1 Digital Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/6of1digital Website: https://www.6of1digital.com/

I’m here to share stories and conversations, not medical or professional advice. I’m not a doctor, therapist, or licensed professional, and this podcast is NOT a substitute for guidance from qualified experts. Please seek out professional support when you need it. Take care and I’ll see you in the next episode.

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🟡 About The Hart of it All

A podcast about navigating the realities of caregiving.

No one should have to do it alone. That’s the heart behind The Hart of It All, hosted by Canadian broadcaster Teri Hart. Inspired by her own experience caring for her dad and helping her mom navigate a new reality, Teri shines a light on the stories, resources, and conversations caregivers need most.

From doctors and nutritionists to fellow caregivers living it every day, each episode offers guidance and connection. Honest, supportive, and grounded in lived experience, The Hart of It All is here to remind us that caring for each other is something we’re all in together. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.