Nobody Plans to Be a Caregiver
This is a true story about my dear friend, Vanessa Wesley, who ended up being a caregiver for a loved one. It could be anyone’s story.
Vanessa says, “Being the caretaker for my father in my retirement years wasn’t what I had planned, but it’s what happened.”
Dad Moved In
Vanessa’s 88-year-old father was no longer able to keep up with his own care. This is why Vanessa and her family invited him to live in the spare bedroom of their home in northern Houston. With his agreement, he was moved from a small area of the tiny state of Rhode Island to the largest city in Texas.
Her father wasn’t easy. They all knew this move wouldn’t be easy. Nonetheless, they thought “it was the right thing to do.” There were big adjustments for everyone.
What She Learned Can Help YOU
Now that Vanessa’s father has passed and the experience is over, Vanessa affirms what’s most important: the resources of time, money, space, and HELP. Without adequate resources, the caregiver can be quickly depleted.
Are YOU Caring for a Spouse, Parent or Loved One?
You NEED to watch this conversation if you are presently caring for someone. You can become so involved with someone else’s needs that your own needs are pushed aside. KNOW THE SYMPTOMS: Compassion fatigue is dangerous to the health of the one who is giving care.
Caregivers Don’t Have To Do It ALL
You might think you have to do all that you do, but that might not be true. It may only be your belief system that needs adjustment. Vanessa was surprised that once she opened up to receiving assistance it took a big burden off her shoulders.
Please share your thoughts in the comment box below…
Have you been a caregiver before? Can you understand and sympathize with Vanessa’s challenges?
Can you relate to the book we talked about writing?
Please click to read this article about planning ahead as a caregiver.
Being a caregiver for a father or mother doesn’t sound comparable always to caring for a spouse…in the latter situation you do not have a choice: you are responsible for his every waking moment as the situation progresses…their personal care, dietary needs, medical care, social outlet, etc. it really is a 24/7 situation which has been thrust upon you.
Hi Eddie Lou, thank you for your comment. It’s a rough road being a caregiver that no one asks for. It’s so important to take care of yourself AT LEAST as much as the person you are caring for!
Thanks for the blog there so much help out there we just have to reach out for it. Keep all this good info coming . Thanks.
Thank you for your encouragement, Pat! I’m definitely working on good stuff for 2020!