I had never thought much about Alzheimer’s or dementia until I recognized the symptoms in my mom. Early on, I took her to the doctor about her declining memory. She grew very upset with me for accusing her of not remembering. Though it hurt my feelings that she thought I was being mean to her, I knew in my heart something needed to be done, but I had to wait until she realized the decline herself. A few years later, mom commented her best friend started taking medicine to help her memory, and she wanted to get some. She never…
Who Will Open the Door Today? by Tess
I live in the same city as my parents. Today, they still live independently. My mother and father have been married for sixty-two years and have known one another since elementary school. I go over often to spend time with them as often as possible because I know having them in my life is a blessing. Over the past few years, I’ve watched as my father’s memory has slowly declined, and in the past year, the decline seems to have moved to a new level. As I drive to their home many days, I wonder who will open the door…
Peace that Passes All Understanding by Cheri Swalwell
I had thought periodically over the last few years how it would feel when one of my parents would leave this earth and pass into eternity. Would I be able to handle it emotionally? How would it look? Could I be there for my husband and children and surviving parent in the midst of my own grief? All I can say is God, in His great love, gave me a peace that allowed me to travel the remaining days we had with my father-in-law. It was unexplainable and yet I can still feel His overwhelming presence today when I reflect…
Could I have Done More by Mary Jane Holt
Two months before his death my husband said, “Honey, you can live without me, but I can’t live without you. You’ve got to rest more.” His words were true. I have a nursing background which helped me know early on that I would have to make hard choices and pace myself in order to walk well through what lay before us. I cut out or limited anything and anyone who drained me excessively. I stopped all in home entertaining except for a couple of very close friends and relatives who were supportive without adding to our stress. I encouraged my…
Caregiving Straight Talk Series
Welcome to my new blog series Caregiving Straight Talk. For the next several Fridays, you will hear from multiple people who have served or are presently serving in the position of Caregiver. Caregiving is necessary at some point in our lives. It comes our way in many forms and for multiple reasons. Sometimes it is voluntary, but many times it falls on our laps whether we’re ready or not. Caregivers rarely express their personal feelings when caring for others, especially a loved one. Meeting the needs of those we love is rewarding, knowing we’ve helped them find some comfort, but…
