This morning I sat reading my monthly newsletter from one of the caregiving organizations I am connected with. I couldn’t help but feel a growing pit in my stomach as my eyes scanned the pages. In the open discussion forum dedicated to “Family Caregivers” I read submission after submission from over-worked, under-appreciated and undeniably stressed individuals. The confessions that I read broke my heart.

“My whole personality has changed since I became a full time family caregiver.”

“I once was compassionate, loving, giving, gentle, happy, patient, fun loving, dreamed dreams.. Now, I’m less compassionate- there’s too much pain in the world, and I can’t help everyone.”

“I love very few people, and they frequently disappoint me…I have little left to give.”

“I smile less as time goes on…”

I had to pause after reading each entry. I tried to envision myself in each of their unique  pairs of  shoes, which seemed ill-fitting and painfully uncomfortable. Many of these  individuals were caring for a spouse or elderly parent. Some had no other family to help. Others had family members who were just simply oblivious to the toll that caregiving was taking on the responsible party. My heart went out to each of them and I said a silent prayer that they somehow find the strength to prevail and the support to help lift a bit of the burden.

The woes af the family caregiver are not unfamiliar to me. In my position, I often counsel families who are struggling with their own set of unique needs, concerns and stresses. Some have been caring for a spouse or aging parent for quite some time and are burned out. Some have only just begun the caregiving  journey and are seeking supportive resources. Some have the financial wherewithall to afford assistance. Others have yet another set of circumstances to add to the mix- finding the financial resources to continue to be able to care for their loved one. The sense of being overwhelmed is the exclamation point at the end of each of their spoken sentences.

I happen to be one who would love to be able to help EVERYONE! I have grand visions of universal happiness for all. Perhaps it’s what helps me get through the day after hearing and reading the sad and broken statements of the family caregiver. I realize that we live in the “real” world and that not everyone is going to find the help, compassion, resources or support that they need or deserve. But I also realize that there are always options out there. Sometimes people are simply too exhausted, time deprived, stressed, and overwhelmed to find them.

To the Family Caregiver, I offer you this- Health Partners has a wonderful staff available to  help you navigate the long, steep path toward finding the right resources for care. We have individuals available to provide you with the respite care YOU need. If we don’t fit your budget or circumstance, we can help you find a trusted resource that may. You don’t have to feel that you’re in your situation alone. You are NOT alone.

Health Partners has been committed to assisting individuals in need of Home Care and their families for two decades.

Please feel free to call our Private Duty Representative, Toni Erskine (248)860-2580 any time.

Tis’ the season when folks are gathering and spreading a little Holiday Cheer among family and friends. Most of us (unless you are among the few individuals that prepare way ahead of time…kudos to you!) are finishing our shopping and wrapping up the last minute details for holiday parties. It is a time to count blessings and enjoy the company of those whom we may not see very often. All of these things can add up to a blissful experience. However, for many it means STRESS!!

One thing to remember…BREATHE! All of the hubub surrounding the Holiday Season is temporary. Love the ones you’re with (even the ones who are a challenge), and if you are the Master of Ceremonies/Organizer/Cook/Gift Wrapper/Mediator of Conflict Situations/House Cleaner/Child Wrangler…Etc. for the events in your life- remember to take a few minutes for yourself! It IS possible, and important!

For many people, this is also a time of year when you may be gathering with your elder family members and friends. How wonderful! Listen to their stories and ask questions! Sometimes it seems like there may not be much to chat about with 90 year old Aunt Lucy, but I’d bet she’d love to tell you some fantastic stories, if you lend the ear and take the time. It might be the greatest gift you could ever give her- a little bit of your time and interest.

Enjoy the Season and all of the SIMPLE things that make this time of year so special! Please be safe and remember those who may need a little extra patience or a gentle helping hand.

From Health Partners to you and yours-

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!