When caring for a family member, established family dynamics and unresolved or new conflicts tend to be common pitfalls. How can we “share the care” without creating unnecessary struggle? It all comes down to family members making key decisions together; reaching consensus on dividing the caregiving tasks; and working as a team. Here are six […]
Summer Holidays
By Wendy Johnstone It’s that time again – summer holidays – and for myself that means a week long cycling trip in Oregon to recharge my batteries. Yes, this week’s column on caregivers taking holidays is a bit of a “re-run” from last summer. In my defense, I would argue some information is worth repeating […]
Caregiving: Unexpected Changes
My Dad is 95 years old and honestly, some days I can’t believe he is still alive. I’m his only daughter and caregiver. I’ve been looking after him for 4 years now. In those years, we’ve had pneumonia, a broken hip and a stroke. What I’ve really learned is there are always unexpected challenges. I […]
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.
Share the Care with Minimal Conflict
Navigating difficult or awkward conversations can, if not handled correctly, create conflict between caregivers and the people they are caring for. Whether it is someone caring for a relative with a disability such as a brain injury or developmental disability or an adult child caring for an aging parent, avoiding conflict or dealing with tension […]