From the desk of Rosemary Laird, MD
Founder of Navigating Aging Needs (NAN), LLC
Labors of Love
Caregivers of loved ones with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia work as much as 40 hours a week caring for their loved one, nearly 30% more time than caregivers tending to people who do not have dementia. A 2019 study found that family caregivers provided more than 18 billion hours of unpaid care to loved ones with dementia, and a 2023 study estimated that the unpaid hours caring for loved ones with dementia could be valued at $346 billion.
Going for the Gold!
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.
Celebrate Juneteenth!
This week we celebrate Juneteenth, one of the oldest international commemorations of the ending of slavery, and the newest Federal Holiday. The celebration of the holiday “is a story of pride, resilience and determination that will always be of historical and spiritual importance – as it serves us well to understand that together, we can overcome all obstacles in our path.” Certainly overcoming obstacles is a core part of being a caregiver. I hope you can take a moment on this holiday to reflect on your critical role in the wellbeing of your loved one, family, and community.
Managing Anger
All of us, at some time, will experience and express anger at our loved one. You are, after all, human, and feeling angry is part of the human experience. The recognition that this very human trait occurs in all of us is the cornerstone of how you can cope with it.
Don’t Just Survive, Thrive!
Being a caregiver for a loved one with Alzheimer’s is typically not something anyone plans for, and can represent a sudden, unexpected, and prolonged commitment to care. But, as Supreme Court Justice Jackson points out, “if you make the most of the resources you have, use your strengths to make your mark, and play the long game in your interactions with others, you will not only survive – you will thrive.”
Seeing the Light
As a caregiver, it’s often hard to actively seek out the flashes of pleasure and joy that come from your everyday efforts. However, if you are able to relax and open yourself to opportunities, those wonderful moments will come to you.
Your Greatest Hits!
Looking at the top 10 articles for 2002 — the “greatest hits” of the year — I can see some very positive patterns emerging among your interests. In turn, these patterns will help guide us in creating even more content in these areas in the future. Here are a few highlights from the most-viewed articles of 2022.
Back to the Basics!
I love the times of celebration, but I now find myself relishing the idea of life getting back to a somewhat normal schedule again as we head into the new year. It is a good time to focus on those fundamental areas where our loved ones might need some extra help.
You Year. New You!
It’s a tradition in the new year that many people make resolutions, but I’d like to recommend that you try something new this year: Try to start several “micro-habits.”
Let's Count Our Blessings!
Counting blessings may seem counterintuitive, given all you and your loved one have been going through this year and the uncertainty of the future. But surely, we are all blessed with this miracle of life, family, and community, which Alzheimer’s impacts, but cannot destroy.
Navigating Holiday Travel
In today’s America, with families spread out all over the country, holiday celebrations can be challenging as you and your loved one may have to travel to join the celebration. But with the right planning and precautions, you can navigate these journeys with a "happy holidays" outcome. Here are some steps to consider.
Take Care of Yourself!
The holiday season can be a heartwarming time of joy with the gathering of friends and family. But it’s not without its challenges: One guest is a vegan and so has dietary restrictions; another brings a toddler who wanders underfoot; another guest needs transportation to the airport. And so on. We adapt and accommodate these challenges because they are labors of love. Remember, however: While during this holiday season you will no doubt do much for others ― you absolutely need to do something for yourself, too!
Managing the Stress of the Holidays
Holidays are traditionally a spirited, happy time, but they can be challenging for caregivers, their loved ones, and their families and friends. There are ways to help maintain the enjoyment of the holiday time, however, and let everyone focus on the family ― even if someone in that family has Alzheimer’s Disease.
It’s National Family Caregiver Month!
As the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services website states, “Celebrated every November, National Family Caregivers Month (NFCM) is a time to recognize and honor family caregivers across the country.” Here are some ways you can embrace your role as a family caregiver.