Gary Barg, Editor-in-Chief
This week we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the first Fearless Caregiver conference ever hosted, which was in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Since then we have traveled across the nation to host 222 events in 47 cities and 25 states. I’m often asked why we spend the time on the road when we can communicate with family caregivers through Today’s Caregiver and on caregiver.com. My answer is simple – because that’s where the wisdom is.
I believe that all caregiving is national in implication (Medicare and social security information come to mind) but local in application (who is there to support you in your own community). It is no good to know about a wonderful home care agency if they are four states away and do not service your community. Also, being in a room filled with your fellow local caregivers is a sure-fire way to find those missing pieces of the caregiver puzzle you have been desperately seeking. As well, it is quite eye-opening to hear your concerns being voiced by other caregivers and then have a myriad of possible answers flying across the room.
We have found so many times that connections are made between our attendees, as well as the care organizations in town that blossom into direct support for area caregivers.
So, in short, the secret sauce for successful family caregiving has a few tangy ingredients. Don’t isolate yourself, spend time with your fellow caregivers, whether online or live support groups or even local events, ask any question that comes to mind, and do not hesitate until you receive clear and concise answers and remember that Job One as a family caregiver is caring for yourself. And, maybe as a tasty topping, learning that you are not alone, no matter the size of your community. Our upcoming events are in in this link. Hope to see you in your town soon!