When the dementia journey with my mom began in 2020, I became keenly aware of the underlying current of dread and distress that comes with caregiving. Anything can go sideways at any time, whether you are nearby or not, which is why when I saw the call coming in from memory care at 11:00 pm, I thought, Oh, No. Mom was in her mid-70s and in perfect health living in California … [Read more...]
Buy the Ticket: Take the Ride: My dad’s last hoorah despite dementia
With a career working with seniors and specializing in supporting those living with dementia, you would think that I would be fully prepared when my father was officially diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and Vascular Dementia. But the truth is no one can prepare you for this news and the realization that everything will be different. But I learned one important lesson on this … [Read more...]
Are You Putting Off Grief or Finally Living Your Life?
2023 was the year when, for the first time, I was able to really concentrate on my business. It feels good to see everything that was accomplished and gratifying to look back at the family caregivers whose lives I was able to touch. It felt like I was finally reclaiming my life. So, if 2023 was such a good year, why was the start of 2024 hard personally and professionally? … [Read more...]
Mom is Gone a Year Now.
Some days it feels like yesterday that I got the call she had passed during the night. Other days it feels like it happened years ago. Grief is such a complex emotion that is different for everyone. That is why it feels so complicated to me because there is no formula. I have been surprised this past year by how often the grief I feel at losing mom is doubled by the grief of … [Read more...]
What your family needs to understand about the limits you set.
“When people set boundaries with you, it’s their attempt to continue the relationship with you. It is not an attempt to hurt you.” Elizabeth Earnshaw I often talk about the importance of setting boundaries and spell out strategies for an intentional conversation which help in these difficult discussions. I consider boundaries to be the foundation of self-care. So much so, … [Read more...]