Pot Luck Nation
Dear Caregivers,
Over the recent 4th of July weekend picnic gatherings with my family and friends, I couldn’t help being impressed by the broad array of foods and traditions on display. What better way to celebrate the anniversary of the birth of our nation than to enjoy the different contributions that everyone has brought to the communal supper table?
The concept of a “pot luck” dinner is also quite apt for the community of friends, family, and professionals who gather together in the crucial task of helping a caregiver of a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s. From a friend who offers you a soothing embrace, to the lab technicians who help track your loved one’s vital health details, to the family member who steps in to help cover you when you need to be away, each person in your “caregiving village” plays a critical role in your day.
Just like the varied perspectives and traditions that we celebrate as the American experience, the combination of skills and experiences in your caregiving village are worth celebrating as well! Work with your NAN Navigator to explore how you can make the most of this valuable resource.
Here is some more help on working with your community:
Finding your Caregiving Village:
There is a lot we can all learn from each other as we endure our individual journeys as caregivers. There are some needs and feelings that are universal and learning how others manage and navigate can often be hugely comforting. Here's how to do it.
Getting to Know Your Caregiving “Village”:
Identifying and engaging with a medical team that you can count on can make a big difference for you and your loved one. Here is an overview of the types of healthcare professionals you may want to seek out as part of your “caregiving village”.
Communicating with Your Caregiving Village:
As the primary advocate for your loved one, you need to feel confident and comfortable adding your voice to the conversations about their care. Here’s how to communicate with your healthcare providers.
Best,
Rosemary D Laird, MD, MHSA
Founder and Chief Medical Officer
“If you need a village, be willing to build one, contribute to one, and lean on one."
— Robyne Hanley-Dafoe
