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Self-care (for the caregivers)

KnitHappens
KnitHappens Member Posts: 1
First Anniversary
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in Caring for a Parent

I'm helping to care for a parent (ALZ) with my sister. Mom even lives in a retirement community (still independent living) so day to day I do have my own life. It is still so hard. I went to visit for lunch today and now feel exhausted and can't refocus on work. I can't even imagine how much more difficult if I had her in my home, etc.

How do you take care of your mental health? What helps you to still get things done for yourself? What suggestions do you have for me as I know I'm just at the beginning of this journey?

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  • SusanB-dil
    SusanB-dil Member Posts: 1,316
    1000 Comments 100 Care Reactions Third Anniversary 100 Likes
    Member

    Hi KnitHappens - welcome to 'here', but sorry for the reason.

    Sometimes you just need to step away for a bit - even if it is only for a day or two. I have my handcrafts that I can do while still being there for MIL (such as knitting), that I can sort of 'lose myself' into. Maybe do set up an appointment to speak with someone - therapy, counselor, or minister might help…

    yes - it can be overwhelming. Sorry you are dealing with 'this'.

Commonly Used Abbreviations


DH = Dear Husband
DW= Dear Wife, Darling Wife
LO = Loved One
ES = Early Stage
EO = Early Onset
FTD = Frontotemporal Dementia
VD = Vascular Dementia
MC = Memory Care
AL = Assisted Living
POA = Power of Attorney
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