How did you become the caregiver for your loved one?
By default. My only sibling abandoned ship so to speak and lives over 1K miles away because she doesn't like snow (not to mention being self-centered/irresponsible). My mother's dementia developed slowly over time; father has been dependent on women.
robin rosner
Has your relationship changed with the loved one that you are caring for? If so how?
With mom more compassion than I imagined; with dad more anger and frustration especially in dealing with his hearing loss and cluelessness;
What is the hardest thing about being a caregiver and the most rewarding thing?
Having to deal with inept nursing assistants (not all, but many), agencies that hire people who shouldn't be turning me into their supervisor and having to be stressed over watching out for disrespect, theft. Glad I can have mom at home.
What advice would you give to other caregivers?
Oft repeated but bears repeating: Look out for YOU and your well-being. Your health is your wealth and you matter. Without you they would not survive as well.
In ten words or less, what has caregiving taught you?
IF done correctly, it can kill you. (as survivor of aorta dissection).
Describe a situation where being a Fearless Caregiver helped you succeed?
Having even more compassion in my professional role; being an advocate in re to medical system
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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.