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The best thing about this website is the infinite shared wisdom. I have received some really helpful suggestions!

Though I will never change my career to become a CNA, I am always looking to improve the level of care I provide for my MIL.

Every person's life's journey will be different. No one needs to judge another person's decisions nor should anyone feel they should or need to justify their decisions (whether at home care or putting a loved one in a facility as an example).
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I am learning that my aunt's bad behavior is quite normal for someone at her age and health level....although knowing this, I'm still quite dismayed at her antics. I'm also learning it's okay to walk away and let her fail. I am more than willing to help someone who is willing to help themself, but she is not that person. I will not be abused and taken for granted.
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All the great information to help with this journey that no one prepared me for. I also liked the "resources" (top line of this page) with "Caregiver Topics" in case I needed a quick answer or wanted to know more about a certain subject.
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Thanks for the responses. I don’t post a lot but come here often for support through all the info here. Thanks to all.
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I come here when I'm down, hurting, alone, in despair. Sometimes I have posted, but often it helps just to read other posts. So many members are so understanding, and have "been there," and have helpful and really caring responses and feedback. I'm grateful for this forum always. Thanks to all.
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Being able to possibly help or to guide others to help in the struggle to deal with caring for loved ones. That's the help that helped me most when I came here over five years ago, and it is the help I attempt to guide others to.
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jemfleming, I will have to agree with you, as often while in the midst of caregiving we tend to think that we are the only one experiencing what we're experiencing, and it is often reassuring to learn that we are not alone and that there are others in the same or similar boat as we are.
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Best thing I've gotten is gratitude. Grateful for each of the issues, roadblocks, and challenges I hear about from others that we HAVEN'T had to deal with. Grateful for the information and tips and emotional support on things that were very relevant for our process. Most of all, grateful to hear and absorb some of the overarching truths that are woven through this forum, such as:

- There is no magic wand for time or health. If you make it to old age, it's a hard road that includes loss, grief, and pain.

- I cannot make someone else happy and it is not my responsibility to take responsibility for their emotions (or look for a magic wand).

- Use what you learn to make advance plans for yourself. Find out what resources and regulations apply to your state and county. Understand Medicare and Medicaid well before you need them.

- Caregiving of any type/level is a gift and a choice. Don't assume that what works for one individual or family is universal.
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The best thing is that most people who use the forum understand what it's like to have a loved one or friend who needs care.
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