White Boards Rock!

White Boards Rock!

I am a white board fanatic. When I cared for Mom in my home, I had a big white board in the kitchen which was updated every morning with the day and date, plus one in Mom’s sitting room for upcoming events. Encouraging independence with pills for example works well. Every morning, I passed my Mom’s blister pack to her in the kitchen and she would look at the white board to see the day and select her pills on her own. For my full-time job (since I worked from home), I had a number of chores (i.e. deposits, deliveries, mailings) and Mom would accompany me in the car as my “assistant” and keep track of the list of things to do. On trips, I carried a small white board with us for support with key messages (i.e. we are going to the store) so that Mom could refer to it anytime she wished.

The Cycle of Caregiving

The Cycle of Caregiving

“There are only four kinds of people in the world – those who have been caregivers, those who are caregivers, those who will be caregivers and those who will need caregivers. ” ~ Rosalynn Carter

Finding Balance

Finding Balance

During the journey of caregiving, it’s very easy to lose balance: balance with work, family demands, and self care. I have found myself sometimes wobbly with keeping life in balance. It is always comforting to know that you are not alone when it comes to the struggle of maintaining a balanced life. Oprah is in agreement. “I’ve learned that you can’t have everything and do everything at the same time.”

Being a “giver” as a caregiver…

It is easy to get into this pattern. A caregiver is a “giver” by default but there are those of us who are a “giver” in every part of our lives. We give and give and at the end of the day we wonder why there is nothing left. Caregiver burnout is very common for “givers” who give too much. It is a delicate balance. Check out this link to become aware of the symptoms of burnout before it is too late.

Condolences for Pets

Condolences for Pets

Sadly I have had a few friends lose their beloved pets in recent months. The loss of a fur baby can be very traumatic. For many people, pets become members of the family. We have a little toy poodle named Beethoven who is very much apart of the family. Being there to listen and sending a sympathy e-card to a friend or a loved one when their pet passes away can offer care and comfort during a difficult time. Check out Your Dog Advisor site for thoughtful gift ideas.