Category: Caregiving
The Dance. That’s how a colleague once described the way families approach an older loved one’s journey with aging. This is especially true in their final years of life, in what our professional association colleague Amy Cameron O’Rourke calls The Fragile Years.1
It makes sense. Some days it’s a slow, beautiful waltz. Others can be a fast-paced polka. And then there’s the occasional freeform dance that is unchoreographed, a bit chaotic, later stumbling into a seemingly smooth twirl. Occasionally you’ll find yourself in an energetic Go-go.
Caregiving is difficult and exhausting. Family caregivers frequently report experiencing high levels of stress. It can be overwhelming to take care of an older loved one who is experiencing health or memory changes. Too much stress can be harmful to both of you. Ignoring symptoms of caregiver stress can cause a decline in your health.
“Caregiving is stressful, difficult work,” reflects my colleague Lisa Mayfield, founder of Aging Wisdom. “And with a little research and some thoughtful planning, you can take some time away. You’re investing in your own health. You can confidently leave your loved one in caring hands and get refreshed. Remember—your health is as important as that of the person you are caring for. If you’re not healthy, you can’t be your best for your loved one.”
The topic of moving can prompt many parents to bristle at the suggestion. They resist the idea for a myriad of reasons: Home is familiar. They’re overwhelmed by all their stuff. Change is hard. The uncertainty is scary. Sometimes the resistance stems from an outdated perception of a retirement community. They envision the old hospital-model nursing home. “You won’t ship me off to a home,” is a common response.
November is National Family Caregivers Month and National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month These observances help raise awareness about the challenges of caregiving for families, especially Alzheimer’s caregiving, as well as increase support for and educate caregivers and their communities. The current COVID-19 pandemic has also presented new realities and stresses.
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