So why am I interested in caregiving?
In my previous article, I covered 5 things you never knew about caregiving. It’s a useful read, whether you’re a new caregiver or already experienced.
After writing that article, I wanted to introduce myself to you and elaborate on my own experiences as a caregiver throughout my life.
Caregiving seems to be in my DNA. From my mom, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, I’ve witnessed numerous examples of family caregiving.
Of course, we don’t all do it the same way, but there’s a commitment to doing our best. I recognize we aren’t all cut out to be caregivers or do the more intense day-to-day aspects of caregiving. Nevertheless, I feel an affinity for it.
Caregiving in my career
For over 30 years, I had the privilege of working with patients and families as a medical social worker, psychotherapist, and hospice volunteer. My experience ranged from intensive care to long-term rehabilitation and end-of-life care.
Caregiving at home
I was a primary caregiver for my father. My mom died when I was young, and I always knew I would take on some responsibility.
My sister held a financial power of attorney if he needed assistance. I was his medical power of attorney and primary contact with his physicians, many I knew from work.
My dad had chronic COPD and diabetes. He learned to manage his life within the boundaries of his health issues. But, there came the point when his body began to fail, and our conversations and plans went into effect.
The last three months were intense and challenging, but we did our best to keep him safe and comfortable. Knowing we did our best gave me some comfort despite his death.
Unexpected caregiving
In contrast, I’ve also had unexpected caregiving situations, including helping friends who became ill and my daughter with a premature baby.
What led me to this work was the phone call that upended our lives for at least a year.
My sister-in-law lived across the country and was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer. Despite our skills (my husband is a retired physician), we spent the next four months in planes, cars, and crossing scary bridges managing her care.
Caregiving was further complicated by finding resources, connecting with service providers, and managing the legal, financial, and real estate issues in another state.
I knew if it was hard for us with our combined experience, how impossible was it for other caregivers that were less experienced or brand new to caregiving?
Helping you with your own caregiving experiences
I want to make caregiving easier for you.
It’s never uncomplicated, but it doesn’t have to be depleting.
The most effective way to provide proper care and prevent your own burnout is to create a formula... A formula to understand what’s necessary, appreciate different caregiving phases, and keep the caregiver’s needs in the equation is essential.
Releasing the caregiving experience after it has ended is also part of the process.
Next steps
Just as I witnessed family caregiving from an early age, at some point, it will be a part of all of our lives.
We may be the person providing care,
or we may be the person needing care.
Creating thoughtful plans, having tough conversations, and finding joy in relationships is worth the journey.
If you’re in a caregiving role and don’t know what to do next, let’s book a free call to see what you need and how I can help.
Warmly,
PS. This article series would be missing a vital bit of information if I didn’t mention the 3 top areas of concern for caregivers which you can read about here.
Caregiving can be a challenging time.
Grab my “Getting Your Docs In A Row” checklist to help you prepare to care.