How did you become the caregiver for your loved one?
I started caring for my husband Jo, who started having symptoms in 2010 and was diagnosed in 2013.
Has your relationship changed with the loved one that you are caring for? If so how?
We used to often discuss professional issues (Jo was an engineer) and today he can't talk any more. Only our love for each other remained and got even stronger.
Seeing the despair in his eyes when he realizes the confusion in his brain, which happens still frequently, and him, showing/expressing his gratitude and love many times a day.
Andrea Uhlig
What is the hardest thing about being a caregiver and the most rewarding thing?
Seeing the despair in his eyes when he realizes the confusion in his brain, which happens still frequently, and him, showing/expressing his gratitude and love many times a day.
What advice would you give to other caregivers?
Know, what your loved one can not do any more to avoid frustration, but focus on and be thankful for everything that is still possible!
In ten words or less, what has caregiving taught you?
Being patient and staying calm.
Describe a situation where being a Fearless Caregiver helped you succeed?
I convinced my husband not to hide, but speak openly about his disease. This ended up in an understanding environment, where everyone is patient with him and tries to help if necessary. It turned out, that people were understanding and interested in learning.
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Fearless Caregiver Profile: Join us as we celebrate Fearless Caregivers sharing personal stories as we care for our loved ones. Read this week’s Fearless Caregiver Profile and feel free to add your profile as well, so we can learn from and share with our fellow caregivers.