Working Caregiver- Build a Caregiver Community
Caregiving is stressful, one of the most difficult jobs you'll have in your lifetime. We all want to do it all alone. This is a common desire - to do everything you can for your loved one. This can lead to physical and emotional exhaustion, especially if you have a full-time job, and raising children. Financial and social stress also take their toll. Remember: You can't do this alone. Besides the practical help, you'll need all the emotional support you can gather up.
Caregiver support groups are an ideal place to share your concerns and feelings with others who understand and can offer solution options and emotional support.
How do you get Mom to go for a physical exam when she refuses, because she doesn't think she has a physical problem? How do you convince one or both your parents to give up driving? What if Dad continues to fall through-out his day? How do you get him to use a wheelchair? What if parents won’t share their personal financial matters or they won't sign a Power of Attorney, or Medical Power of Attorney?
Getting your parents to realize their increasing physical and mental limitations is a particularly thorny problem for families.
First, you must take good care of yourself or you may become ill and unable to provide help.
Most support groups are free or low cost and are led by a healthcare professional. Many churches have good and valuable support groups.
Remember, you will not always want to provide care because it's difficult and challenging. It'll require you to muster all your courage and strength. And remember at the end ot the day, it will be extremely rewarding. It can bring you closer than you've ever been before.
So, cherish the moments of joy. And remember to laugh together. It'll lighten up stressful situations.. | 
