Embracing Change
Dear Caregivers,
As we head into the Autumn season, we are immersed in a world that is changing all around us. The days are shorter, the air cooler, and farther north the levels of chlorophyll shut down in the leaves of trees, exposing brilliant hues of yellow, red and gold. Though these signs signal that winter is on its way, there is no escaping the beauty it inspires in us.
It is a reminder that there is beauty, too, in the stages of the caregiving journey you are on with your loved one. To be sure, the change is ongoing, and inevitable. But as the old Buddhist saying about the ephemeralness of nature goes, “The world is but a drop of dew….and yet!”
It is in that “...and yet” that we all can find strength, and beauty, in a world of constant change. Here are some tips for making the most of 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 — 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.
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.
Facing the Grief of Caregiving:
It is common for family caregivers helping a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease to feel a profound sense of grief for all that is lost to this disease. You may experience a loss of interest in activities you previously found rewarding and enjoyable. This is often seen in depression but can also be attributed to a profound loss. Here’s how to cope.
Remember, if you can’t find the information you need on our website, you can always “Ask NAN” by clicking on this link.
Best,
Rosemary D Laird, MD, MHSA
Founder and Chief Medical Officer
“Extract the eternal from the ephemeral.”
— Charles Baudelaire
