Learn something important about caregiving today!
The chance is that you became (or are to become) a family caregiver by need, not by choice. Of course, you help.
- Do you know what to do?
- Are you wondering: “WHY ME”?
Caring for a parent or elderly friend takes patience, insight, knowledge, time and lots of self-love.
What if you felt heard and understood as a caregiver?
What if you have someone at hand who helps you to find relief, resources and even relaxation? (Even though you might think that’s impossible…)
You know, when you expected a child, all your family and friends overloaded you with good wishes, encouraging words and shared tips and wisdom on how to prepare and how life will look like. But when it comes to caring for your parents or an elderly friend you may find out that hardly anyone knows what to do or how to help. Often times you have to figure it all out on your own and having many new and unknown responsibilities and challenges is hard. Agree?
And the results? Possible isolation from friends and community, lots of self-doubt, fear and stressors and struggling to manage health, life, work and caregiving.
Caregiving is an emotional journey and you can’t do it alone.
Wouldn’t it be great to understand how important and impactful this caregiving journey is for yourself, your caree (the person you care for) and your family?
But remember: there’s no “one size fits all” solution to caregiving.
Today I’ll introduce you to this amazing concept:
“The Caregiving Years, Six Stages to a Meaningful Journey”.
The Caregiving Years is separated into six stages, each stage defined by the intensity of the caregiving role.
In the early 90’s this concept was developed by Denise Brown of http://caregiving.com. Denise is my teacher and mentor and she is truly the best resource on the planet when it comes to caregiving.
Don’t they say: “Learn from the best?”. I did and still do! As a matter of fact, I just returned home from the 4-day National Caregiving Conference in Chicago, hosted by Denise Brown.
I’ll give you an overview of the 6 stages of The Caregiving Years so you get a bit more insight on your journey and what to expect.
Then over the next months, I will dive deeper into the concept and share tips and strategies. I’ll map out “Stumbles” (wrong turns, unexpected challenges and unplanned crises) and ways to “steady” these stumbles.
Let’s get started!
Stage I: The Expectant Caregiver
In the future, you may help a family member or friend.
Stage II: The Freshman Caregiver
You are starting to help a family member or friend.
Stage III: The Entrenched Caregiver
You are helping (almost) 24/7.
Stage IV: The Pragmatic Caregiver
You are still caring for a family member or friend.
Stage V: The Transitioning Caregiver
Your role is changing.
Stage VI: The Godspeed Caregiver
Your caregiving role has ended.
What stage are you in right now? What’s next and how can you prepare?
Is it time for you to reach out for support? Don’t hesitate!
Book a 20 min complimentary caregiving consult with me and let me help you solve a challenge. Just click this link and you can choose your time directly from my calendar: http://calendly.com/creatingbeingwell
I listen. I understand. I help.
Keep an eye out for the next blog as I go deeper with you into the 6 stages.
With love & care,
Saskia Jennings
Certified Caregiving Consultant & Educator
Qualicum Beach, B.C.
http://www.creatingbeingwell.com
Current Phone #: 647.528.2037