How did you become the caregiver for your loved one?
My husband and I were both widowed when we met 18 years ago. We had a wonderful second chance in life. Then 2 years ago he was diagnosed with dementia and Parkinsonism. Hie continues to decline and can do less each month.
Has your relationship changed with the loved one that you are caring for? If so how?
Yes and no. Fred loved to shop and cook. I do it now. We loved traveling. We stay home now. He loved to talk, tell stories, engage with everyone he met. He is mostly silent now. But we are still very much in love and we can make each other laugh.
Carolyn and husband
What is the hardest thing about being a caregiver and the most rewarding thing?
The hardest thing is watching him decline day by day. It’s seeing how others see him now and wanting to say, "you should have known him when". Most rewarding has been becoming a warrior again. Reminding myself each day that I can do this.
What advice would you give to other caregivers?
Read. Pray. Love! Make lists. Keep detailed notes so when drs, agencies, family members, ask questions , you have the answers and they know you are on top of things. Learn to ask for help! This was the hardest for me to do, and the thing I needed most.
In ten words or less, what has caregiving taught you?
Patience and I’m not in charge of everything.
Describe a situation where being a Fearless Caregiver helped you succeed?
I live in the suburbs and I don’t love driving. When we knew Fred had to give up driving, I either had to step up and take us everywhere we needed to go or Both become dependent on our busy children. I am now a much better, more confident driver!
Fill Out Your Own Fearless Caregiver Profile
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.