By BKN, A Family Caregiver Me at the window: “It’s nice and sunny today.” My husband looks and says: “Bullsh*t! That’s fog.” In 2014, my husband had a hemorrhagic stroke. Today, mostly recovered, he is physically able and retains important skills such as speech, walking, eating, and self-hygiene. However, his mild dementia includes confusion, vision […]
The Embrace of a Caring Circle
By Jim LaMorte, Friend Caregiver I care about a caregiver, and I am not alone. There are a lot of us, and last year we all faced the same problem of how to help. Here is our story about the Caring Circle that grew around two friends in pain. Let’s call them Art and Grace. […]
Part 1: Why Boundary Setting is Important for Caregivers
“You have to be able to set boundaries, otherwise the rest of the world is telling you who you are and what you should be doing. You can still be a nice person and set boundaries.” – Oprah Winfrey One of the most common challenges that we hear from caregivers is how difficult it is […]
Caregiver’s Voice: Part 3 in a 3-Part Series of Taking Stock
Caregiving is now a common experience, however roles and activities can be very different from one caregiver to the next. Caregiving is dynamic, and it can move in different directions at any given time. Encouraging caregivers to use their voice, especially astheir role expands, can improve their own situation and the care team’s ability to […]
Creating Wellness When it Seems Impossible
When I’m working with a caregiver over the phone and I hear them struggling to prioritize their needs or find the time and energy to keep well, it’s incredibly difficult for me to respond with: “Put your own oxygen mask on first before helping the person you are caring for.” It’s one thing for […]
Creating Connections in the Community
Many caregivers feel alone in their role and responsibility. In the research, social isolation is identified as one of the highest risk factors experienced by family caregivers. It’s also what friends, family and professionals frequently observe. Yet, it can also the be the hardest area to change or improve.
Are you a healthy caregiver?
Many caregivers understand the importance of caring for themselves and, yet, in another breath, say things like, “I feel overwhelmed,” “I’m stressed out,” “I’m too busy to eat, let alone find time to stay healthy,” and “There are so many things to do, how do I make time for myself?”
Assertive and Effective Communication
By Wendy Johnstone Family caregivers often struggle with not knowing how to speak up and get their message across to key people involved with the person for whom they are caring. Being assertive with effective communication skills is about knowing what you want to say at the right time to the right person. We’ve all […]
Generally Speaking
Family caregivers often struggle with not knowing how to speak up and get their message across to key people involved with the person for whom they’re caring. Being assertive with effective communication skills is about knowing what you want to say at the right time to the right person.
The 4P system for making difficult family caregiving decisions
Sometimes caregiving becomes a family affair, especially when difficult decisions regarding care and the care recipient’s future needs are concerned. When I was 34-years-old, my dad had a massive stroke. It was a very challenging and emotional time for our family.