Going for the Gold!
Dear Caregivers,
Every Olympic season, I marvel at the sheer majesty and perfection of the human body as the athletes run, swim, and hurdle through space during the Games. The feats of athleticism, for which these competitors have trained all their lives, is truly inspirational.
But when it comes to caregiving for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, my inspiration from the Olympics is not what you may think. Unlike the Olympics, caregiving is not about striving for perfection: No caregiver should bear the burden of having a judge, timer, or standard by which they are measured. Indeed, even harboring the feeling that “you can do better” is something to avoid. Of course, we all can do better; but of course, we’re all only human.
Instead, I take my inspiration from the attitudes that many of these Olympic athletes themselves bring to the Games: They are dedicated to what they do by the love of what they do, and in the end, they know that all they can do the best that they can. That’s all any of us can do, day in and day out.
Here are some further thoughts on caregiving:
Setting Boundaries as a Caregiver:
As a caregiver, it is essential that you remain committed to your personal boundaries, making sure that you give yourself time and space to address your personal needs for rest, relaxation, and fulfillment. This foundation for positive self-care is vital in improving your well-being. Here’s how to do it.
Caregiver Burnout: How to Cope
Caregiving for someone suffering from Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most challenging jobs in the world, and it comes with a risk of what is known as “Caregiver Burnout.” With caregiver burnout, you are in a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that may also be coupled with a change in your attitude towards your caregiving role, from one of positive, caring, and rewarding to one of feeling negative, unconcerned, and resentful. Here’s how to cope.
Finding the Joy as a Family Caregiver:
The challenge that family caregivers face is to learn acceptance, to live in the present moment, and to let go of things you cannot control. This is a challenge to be sure, but if there can be any joy in caregiving, this is where it is.
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
“If you try to do your best, there is no failure.”
— Mike Farrell
