I have trouble at time dealing with my frustrations and patients and I want to learn how to get better with it so not to take it out or show it to my aging mother.
There is a forum, here on Aging Care called "The Caregiver... How are you feeling today?" It is especially for dealing with all the spectrum of emotions and problems you'll experience as a caregiver. No judgements. Great group of people.
Do you have encouragement or advice; I'm the live-in caregiver for my 88 yo grandfather who's developed dementia since Jan 7th last year when grandmom suddenly died. I'm also working full-time 30 minutes away with a boss who's trying to make me leave and doesn't understand or support my family's decision to love and care for grandad at home instead of an ALF, like the one I'm working in. Both my parents love and help, and visit as much as possible--several times a week, but it's becoming really hard. I'm tired. I have a MS in gerontology and my life's purpose is to care for older adults, but doing that plus being the full-time family caregiver for an unknown future # of time is starting to get to me, especially with such a mean boss...I've researched and trie, a counselor to hep, but with no success. Any suggestions for better balancing of everything, and support systems in NC? Thank you
What I like best here at AC is we can say how we really feel without someone telling us how we shouldn't feel that way. Talk about validation therapy -- but for us, instead of the people we care for.
In addition, here are also several elderly caregivers organization groups to provide you with support and advice. I have included their website and contact numbers in case you might be interested, they are very accommodating to help you with providing care for loved ones who are dependent on long term care - http://www.infolongtermcare.org/senior-caregiver-support/elderly-caregiver-support-organization/
Donna, my MIL didn't want to be around old people. She is 86. When she moved to ALF, she met friends from high school. Apparently they were not old. My3, just put him in a room full of contemporaries and they can lie to each other. :-) Listen and try not to laugh.
Daver, get mom involved with friends her own age. It gives you a break, and it gives her a big lift in spirits to be with her contemporaries. If you work during the day, can your Senior Center pick her up?
Don't be afraid to let your hair down. As long as you don't attack other people you can say anything. Hugs
My3, just put him in a room full of contemporaries and they can lie to each other. :-) Listen and try not to laugh.