By Guest Blogger Stephanie Lewis You must feel irritated, disturbed or frustrated when you have a busy schedule or when you are depressed. Your capability to function in life is affected by the time and efforts you give to your own needs. Like getting essential oil changes for your car, organizing your self-mind is the…
If you’re caring for an elderly parent, it’s likely you’ll be exhausted by the physical and mental energy needed by your aging loved one. Take time to rest, or you may suffer from compassion fatigue, also known as caregiver burnout. Symptoms of Compassion Fatigue Excessive blaming Bottled up emotion Complaining Substance abuse Difficulty concentrating Poor…
Caring for an elder is oftentimes perceived as a blessing in disguise. However, adhering persistently to fulfilling the needs of one’s aging parent can take its toll on a person. But if you know the problems, you can definitely find a solution. Here, I’ll point out the five most difficult problems faced by the caregivers.…
I had the privilege of talking with Dr. Freda Crews of Time For Hope. Her television program inspires and informs Christians who struggle with physical, emotional, and spiritual issues. Dr. Freda V. Crews, D. Min., Ph.D., is the Director of Time for Hope Ministries and the host of Time for Hope, the internationally syndicated television…
In my father’s house are many mansions. If it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. John 14:12 “I’m afraid to die.” I’ve heard this comment from more than one older person. And all are professing Christians. What is going on? Christians have an abiding belief…
When an older adult loses their hearing, they face the same fears as anyone with a different kind of disability. They worry about being marginalized, or seen as incompetent, or even stupid. Sometimes they lash out at the ones who try to help. Since Mike is semi-retired, he spends more time with my mom on…
Aging and isolation, helping elders cope with seclusion when they start losing loved ones. I met Alene when she lived with her son, Greg and his wife. She is another elderly woman who struggled with loss and loneliness, but her story is different. When Alene became too frail for Greg and his wife to provide…
As we look to a brand new year, it brings to mind new beginnings. A fresh start. Maybe do things differently this year. Here are some resolutions I’ve made to make 2017 better than 2016 in my role as caregiver for my ninety-three-year-old mother: Give more grace. I need to remind myself that she’s 93,…
What are your plans for Christmas and New Year’s? Do they include a house-bound parent, spouse, or child? Do you dream of going away for the holidays, but can’t because of caregiving responsibilities? My mother’s birthday is Christmas Eve. She’ll be ninety-three this year. Mom expects a big family dinner on her birthday. How…
I recently returned from a long weekend, across the southern California to Rosarito Beach, Mexico. It was a much-needed trip away from the day to day routine of working and caregiving. I spent a lot of time thinking, while staring at the endless waves crashing onto the shore. My thoughts turned to you, caregivers who…