Jul 6, 2013

Caregivers Need Support

"Many caregivers feel as if every day is the longest day. The popular book "The 36-Hour Day" reflects that notion. In another great book, by Gail Sheehy, called "Passages in Caregiving," she says that the vast majority of family caregivers are swept in with no preparation or training for the role they're expected to perform or the transitions they'll face. They're unprepared for the emotional toll that accompanies the journey."  Mayo Clinic Newsletter

Not only are we unprepared, but it is very difficult to get the support and information we want and need.  I am grateful for family and friends who support us and who help educate me.  A sister was just here who helps to bring out the best in Dwane.  A friend invited both of us to her house for a July 4th picnic, and it was so good to have Dwane out with people who engage him and help him.  A daughter who visits him, a son-in-law who mows our lawn.  The above newsletter is about caregivers needing support.  Some websites that give good information are:  Eldercare Locator elder-care.gov), AARP (aarp.org), and either Lewy Bodies Dementia (lbda.org) or Alzheimer's Association (alz.org). 

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