SCRC'S Caregiver of the Month Spotlight: Christina
My caregiver journey began in December after my mother had a stroke. We were on vacation at the time, in a remote area and she did not get the medical care she needed in a timely manner. My husband and I have been doing the best that we can for her ever since, but it's been a challenge. She has had three separate hospitalizations and was recently discharged from a skilled nursing facility to our residence. She has re-gained some function but remains totally dependent on others for her activities of daily living. I am slowly figuring out a game plan for taking care of her. I feel overwhelmed by the responsibility but also grateful I am here for her when she needs me most.
Advice: Caregiving is hard. If you don't take care of yourself as well as your loved one, it will impact the relationships you cherish most. Pace yourself and when you feel overwhelmed take a step back. Not everything has to be solved in a day or week. Relax.