Dealing with Change
Dear Caregivers,
It seems that we’re in times of tremendous change all around us: With armed conflict arising in Ukraine, and the pandemic still running its course, it sometimes feels as though the world has been turned upside down. And your personal life, too, is undergoing tremendous changes as you cope with the challenges of your loved one’s health.
But it’s important to remember that there is reason for tremendous hope, too, as you navigate this changing landscape — and that NAN is your dedicated partner in this journey. Your NAN Navigator will help you assess your situation, give you practical advice for improving what you can, and connect you with the resources and expertise that can help you succeed. To help with that process, here are some tips for dealing with these times of great change:
Soothe the soul:
Music is one of the most ancient elements of human culture, and modern medicine has demonstrated that music also has clinical benefits, too, including improving a person’s mood, cognitive ability, and perception of pain. Using music as therapy can involve listening to music, making music, writing songs, and discussing lyrics. Click here to learn more about how you can use some “joyful noise” to bring calm – and fun – into your and your loved one’s life.
Have a Plan B:
One way to cope with the anxiety of change is knowing that you have a backup plan, just in case. No family caregiver wants to think there might come a time when, for some reason, they wouldn't be able to help their loved one. But just in case, it is critical you identify an individual as a “Plan B” caregiver who is able to quickly take over as advocate and guardian for your loved one in the event that is needed. Even if help is required only for a short time, it will be a great aid to those stepping in for you to have a “Plan B,” outlined, so that they have a clear idea of the wishes of you and your loved one. Click here to learn more about getting the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your loved one will have care even if for some reason you cannot provide it.
Stay positive:
The changes – and challenges – that come with being a caregiver can result in feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression. It’s important to understand that these feelings can be accompanied by physical reactions of the body's stress signals the body receives, including increases in heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing. Click here to learn about a suite of options you can employ to deal with these stressful times, including deep breathing, positive thinking, and eating well.
Best,
Rosemary D Laird, MD, MHSA
Founder and Chief Medical Officer
“ If you can’t change your fate, change your attitude.”
— Amy Tan
