Caregiving ups and downs
Hi there! I take care of my blind father with dementia and my wheelchair bound mother, all by myself. They can do a lot for themselves still, amazingly, yet needless to say Im stressed. I need my own job too, but no time. They take care of my needs for now. I have pretty severe anxiety so its not like Im one of those lucky people who are energizer bunnies with a gusto for life, though I do love my life. I am trying and it is my kitties, my fur babies, that keep me going when it gets hard. I so much wish to find others who are in or have been in, similar situations. Thank you for listening. :-)
@CDanielle I'd just like to personally thankyou from the bottom of my heart ❤ what you do, all the hardships you face, you are just amazing to keep going ❤ trigger warning, disabilities.... My spine is broken and not completely fixable, I lost my legs and some fingers, I live in a care home now, and I know how much hard work you out into everyday. So thank you the world needs more people like you ❤ it's important to take a break sometimes though, even if it's just scheduling some alone time, self care is important. ❤ hugs you tightly ❤
@Tinywhisper11 Thank you!!! This means a lot. Many hugs back to you. I hope you are able to find joys in your day even though I know its not easy. <3
@CDanielle
I can only imagine what you must be going through. Caregiving is such an intense, demanding act that takes a heavy physical, mental, and emotional toll. It requires us to give, even when we may be struggling to take care of ourselves. I hope you find someone in a similar situation soon, so that you can get the supportive encouragement you absolutely deserve. Sending a hug and nourishing vibes!
@idlemusings Thank you so much!! <3
I’m proud of you
@CDanielle
people say we are strong, courageous and admirable but what choice was you given in such a situation?
you didn’t choose this.
what you did chose is your selfless response and outstanding care and kindness, sacrificing your own basic want and putting your dreams on hold. That is not always people’s reaction to such adversity and shows how caring, compassionate and loving you are.
its very hard and you don’t lose sight, putting needs of who you love above yours. You are appreciated and the type of human the world would be utopia if everyone had the same qualities.
the disability space and carers space is growing strong and I am glad you are her and a part of it.
As already mentioned please do at every opportunity take time to look after yourself. The age old saying, put on your own life jacket before helping others. I know it’s not always that simple but please try .
Welcome to the community and hope to hear how you are doing soon. Merry Christmas to you and your family
@LabeledBPD Thank you very much for that! I will drown if I dont put on my life jacket. I am beyond exhausted. Everyone has their limits. Ive been doing this for years now, no weekends off, no sleeping in. Much Love!!
@CDanielle Hi there. You have so much on your plate. Taking care of two disabled Family member's, one being wheel chair bound takes a huge amount of energy and can become overwhelming. Their care can leave you without anytime to take care of yourself. I can relate to your stress so much. I was a care taker for my grandparents and my grandmother was wheel chair bound. It is indeed emotionally and physically exhausting. I can tell you are dedicated to family, and it is commendable you step up to fill this role. Out of concern for your wellbeing, I was wondering if you where aware of additional resources for caretakers?
@CDanielle
all appreciation to your role, caregiving with family members could be challenging it needs organization, managing time, setting plans, highlighting priorities, regulating emotions, practicing self-care daily, all those skills to survive your day, I wish you good luck
Hi Danielle, I wanted to reach out to you to let you know you are not alone. I have so much compassion for your situation as you care for both of your parents. Indeed a labor of love. You have a heart of gold. I care for my mom with mild dementia and while I’m a certified nursing assistant it’s quite different caring for a loved one. I did somewhat know what I was getting myself into as about 10 years ago I cared for my grandma with severe Alzheimer’s for about a year and it was extremely hard for me as initially I had such limited knowledge and I was left alone to care for her with some help from my mom. It was so hard because I was very close to my Grandma so when she passed it sent me into a deep depression. Thankfully God pulled me out of it and for that I am so grateful but I’ve struggled with depression and anxiety fairly severely on and off in the last ten years so I want you to know you are not alone. My animals are often the thing that keep me going. I rescued 7 kittens and bottle fed them all, I did have help from my boyfriend but I do most of the work as I’ve decided to keep them all. I can be a bit crazy with all my pets and I know most people think I’m crazy as I obsess over their safety but they are my joy. I want you to know I wish I could give you a hug and let you know I’m here with you and if it’s ok with you I will be praying for you, your parents your kittues too ❤️