This short video brought tears to my eyes to see changing roles celebrated. As a young woman, I always wanted to be the one who took care of my mother in her time of need because of the love and support she gave me growing up. It did not quite turn out that way and the reason for this probably doesn’t matter. But because I was not there in the way I wanted to be or for changing roles, I am vigilant about supporting friends who are caregivers for being the blessings they are in someone else’s life. Most are doing what they must do.
One friend’s mother is suffering from paranoid schizophrenia. She must sort through truth and half truths in her mother’s mind to deliver appropriate care and keep her relatively happy. Another friend is engaged in regular combative skirmishes with a physically disabled parent whose unhappiness with her assisted living environment has prompted multiple attempts to escape the facility.
With Thanksgiving coming, I know they could use my support. It is as AARP says, ” Every day, a silent army of Americans performs a great labor of love.” I recognize their effort and their struggle and the impact it has on their personal lives. For that reason I am joining AARP in celebrating caregivers with stories filled with love and encouragement during National Caregiver’s Month
There are so many stories to share. Please take a quick look here at the video. Stay up-to-date on issues affecting caregiving. Sign up for the AARP caregiving newsletter or check out the AARP Caregiving Resource Center for information, tips and tools for caregivers.
I am a member of AARP’s blogger kitchen cabinet on caregiving issues. All opinions are my own.
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