I'd like to add a different perspective on this - one I struggle with daily. I was a caregiver for four years and I know the journey - it was stressful to say the least for me. Today, I'm a widow and my 86th birthday is coming soon. I'm still very active, live alone, and take care of myself 95% of the time, However, I don't drive anymore, my eyesight isn't as good as it was, and I need a helping hand from time to time. My family is super supportive and willing to step in. My daughter lives nearby and willing brings meals over daily or picks things up at the grocery for me. But I fear I'll need additional assistance in the future and at the same time don't want to depend on them. So, I spend a lot of time figuring out ways to care for myself better now - to minimize the insidious growth of needs later.
Thank you, Janice. I hear you! I'm thinking about this for myself, too, because I don't have family nearby, and all my special, chosen family friends live a few hours away or in other countries. This is why I'm following you, Jody Day, and Sue Fagalde Lick. We all need life-mentors, and intergenerational support.
I've started trying to build more support connections locally for today's rollercoaster and community in general. Not easy when we're rollercoastering!
I appreciate you, and your Newsletter especially the cute little 'Lighter notes'. Thank you for taking the time to comment here.
I'd like to add a different perspective on this - one I struggle with daily. I was a caregiver for four years and I know the journey - it was stressful to say the least for me. Today, I'm a widow and my 86th birthday is coming soon. I'm still very active, live alone, and take care of myself 95% of the time, However, I don't drive anymore, my eyesight isn't as good as it was, and I need a helping hand from time to time. My family is super supportive and willing to step in. My daughter lives nearby and willing brings meals over daily or picks things up at the grocery for me. But I fear I'll need additional assistance in the future and at the same time don't want to depend on them. So, I spend a lot of time figuring out ways to care for myself better now - to minimize the insidious growth of needs later.
Thank you, Janice. I hear you! I'm thinking about this for myself, too, because I don't have family nearby, and all my special, chosen family friends live a few hours away or in other countries. This is why I'm following you, Jody Day, and Sue Fagalde Lick. We all need life-mentors, and intergenerational support.
I've started trying to build more support connections locally for today's rollercoaster and community in general. Not easy when we're rollercoastering!
I appreciate you, and your Newsletter especially the cute little 'Lighter notes'. Thank you for taking the time to comment here.
Thank you Victoria. You are doing a world of service to the caregiver community - it's amazing. Take care!
Awww, that means SO much to me, coming from you, Janice! Thank you! xoxo BIG hugs