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Life after 15 years of caregiving 24-7. After 15 years of 24-7 caregiving, I have lost myself and my purpose in life. I was caring for ny mom, dad and husband. My Dad died in 2006. My Mom died in 2013. Now it is my husband and myself. He has episodes of atrial flutter, but they are infrequent now. I know the things I should do, but just can't get motivated. My two best friends just moved to cities far away. We have four cats we look after. Reading is a hobby. I had a total knee replacement in 2011 and have fallen three times since then. Just a lot of problems with both legs. I was told I should not walk as an exercise because of inflamed tendon in my left foot.

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Good idea about the dog, but get an older one that won't need tons of exercise.
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Morley if you want to learn about something new there are college level classes in almost anything you can imagine that are free. Google coursera you will be absolutely amazed at what they offer! I have taken four of there classes now, and have enjoyed every one of them, made some friends throughout the world, and learned something besides without spending a dime!
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Maybe get a dog then? You said you had 4 cats...Well, just thought of giving a simple opinion rather than a complex one, since the members above are also giving them theirs. Unlike cats, dogs can express their love and respect to their masters :) well for me, my dogs are my relief!
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I recommend the local library. A nice class of people hang out there.

I also recommend volunteering in the schools. Even with no advanced degrees, anyone could help in elementary school. Boy, that feels worthwhile!

When they say don't walk, I bet you could and should walk short distances. Walk past the three houses next to yours and back. Even walking all the aisles in the supermarket is exercise, but probably not enough to cause trouble. Start small. though, and check with your doctor.

As Jeanne says, take it slow and don't get down on yourself.
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I'm a year past being a full-time caregiver. I thought I was going to go gang-busters doing all the things I haven't been able to do for years. I didn't. I did a few things now and then. I don't mean I sat around twirling my thumbs for a year. But I discovered that baby steps are necessary no matter what you expect or intend. Just keep at it.

If you love reading, I highly recommend a book club. Book stores and libraries sponsor them (as well as private groups of neighbors, fellow graduates, mystery lovers, etc.)
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Thanks vstefans. I have an orthotic from an MD. He was the one who suggested that I not walk as an exercise. My foot is better, but have torn miniscus in my other knee so have to be careful. I have been playing hidden objects and strategy games on Big Fish games to keep my mind active. I am on Facebook. I'm willing to learn something new if I can just figure out what it is I want to learn, ha! Thank you for reminding me of baby steps. That is ONE thing I will need to learn!!
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Maybe try swimming and maybe some Tai Chi to get some strength and balance back. Maybe you need a second opinion on walking - possibly an orthotic or iontophoresis would help the inflamed tendon enough to let you do more. Maybe join a book club to get some socialization, and as long as you can avoid getting depressingly addicted to silly games, Facebook could be a great way to stay connected. Start a blog on Wordpress; learn something new.

You've been through the wringer with grief and loss, and the other thing to do is give yourself time. Baby steps towards a better, fuller life are absolutely fine.
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