I know I’m not alone in these emotions. When I talk to family caregivers, a common thread is the range and depth of the emotions we are feeling during this crisis. As caregivers, we always live with the fear that an underlying medical issue will worsen or a heart attack or stroke will force our loved one into the hospital. But today’s world heightens our fears and increases … [Read more...]
Tips For Caregivers On How To Stay Sane, Safe and Healthy During COVID-19
Practical ideas and suggestions that have worked for Mom and me. Wow, just wow. This is not where anyone thought we would be just a few weeks ago. Our world has changed drastically and it has added an additional level of complexity and need for problem solving when caregiving is already beyond stressful. Let’s address a couple of them. How to stay sane. Try to limit … [Read more...]
Two Years After Caregiving Has Ended, What Is My Purpose?
"Finding a new purpose in life isn’t easy." Ingrid Ingrid and I have known each other for several years, we attend the same caregiver group. Not long after her beloved husband died, she allowed me to share one of her caregiver stories: A Dementia Caregivers’ Journey is Long. What if YOU need help from 911? This is Ingrid's story today, in her own words, two years after her … [Read more...]
Caregiving Changes Relationships.
A Podcast with All Things Seniors." Something a bit different this week. I had the opportunity to chat with Rafiq Punjani of "All Things Seniors" about how caregiving changes relationships. Apple Podcast Link: Episode 16 Spotify Link: Episode 16 Android Podcast Link: Episode 16 'All Things Seniors' focuses on issues that are important to seniors: … [Read more...]
Are You Balanced On The Knife Edge Of Caregiving? It Is Exhausting.
Knife Edge: In a difficult or worrying situation of which the result is very uncertain. Cambridge Dictionary Six years into caregiving for my mother and we are fortunate to be in what I call “The In-Between Place.” By that I mean her health (and mine!) and her mobility issues are steady. We have a routine down that is working, and I am grateful. However, I am always watching … [Read more...]