Caregiving Tips During the Holidays

Sorry to say I find this article useless. The longer I am a caregiver the more I become aware of how disconnected "experts" are when they give us their opinion.
I would like to see an effort by us, the caregivers, to hold experts accountable to a higher standard for their canned statements and articles that recycle the same old lines.

For all the caregivers who struggled this week with giving a bath to someone who didn't want one, got a same day appointment *despite* drs offices being double booked because of the holidays, and realized that there was little in the way of community or social events that included you - this rant is for you, especially the single women who do it without extra money, help or family involvment.......

It would be interesting to see what happened if we did a national "day without a caregiver" - the system would be overwhelmed and maybe attention would be paid. Lucky for this country that caregivers don't walk away from the people they love & care for.

My tip for the holidays - avoid chipper advice from people who have never personally done it for more than a minute. And I can tell from the article that this author hasn't

There are 2 sides to every coin Cat. And a positive attitude helps a lot. Plus, if you are a caregiver, like I am, you know that boundaries are crucial for your health and attitude and ability to truly care. No one said this is a perfect world, and in the aging care realm, it definitely is not. I'm glad you spoke up, but remember that no everyone has your perspective, yet is entitled to theirs. -- Cate

Cate,
I am a caregiver for over 6 years & do have a positive attitude - I am the sole caregiver for a mother with dementia and other health problems. I simply have no patience left for generic "take care of yourself articles" especially as I said if they are as generic as this article was.

Thank you for your quick response. Actually my attitude is great as I am able to see the humour in articles like this - I must say I had a chuckle while reading it.

I am puzzled however why you felt the need to post an opinion about my comments and tell me that you are *glad I spoke up*. I have been speaking up on this board for over a year. This board is here for caregivers to speak their minds, which means that it is a safe place for family caregivers to speak *freely*. I stand behind what I said and will continue to do so. You did not offer any advice so what was the actual purpose? Do you feel you have pointed out some crucial thing that I didn't know> LOL

I would be interested to know what is your caregiving situation and how this article relates & applies to your own experience.

Cate, I agree with Cat. I'm sick of these patronizing articles that tell us to go out with friends once in a while or we may get sick and die. I've been a caregiver to my ancient self-centered mother for 5 years. I was blindsided by her need. No one else will help, they all ran the other way. There is no way out for me. I've been reading and attending lectures and support groups for years, and what I have discovered is the cell door has slammed shut one me until one of us finally dies.