The Seasons Of Caregiving
By Beverly Moore

Quincy - I liken the journey of caregiving to the seasons of the year. This month we’ll look at what spring represents. Spring brings an awareness of the newness of life as bulbs push their way up through the cold soil to burst into a colorful array of hyacinths, crocuses and daffodils. It is time to clean up and work the soil in preparation for the wonder of spring. The new gardener must learn how to grow plants and care for them to create the best garden.

A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s is a life crisis and heightens awareness that life will never be the same again. Everything is new and there is a need to learn new things: new ways of relating, new medical avenues and new, perhaps never heeded resources for the journey ahead.

The Alzheimer caregiver who seeks education is a more confident caregiver. Education is essential in this new, unfamiliar season in your life, one in which a member of the family changes and needs your understanding and support to feel safe in their world.

You wonder: What are they experiencing? How can I help empower them to stay in control of their life? How do I relate to them in a respectful way that brings meaning to their life? Who can help me?

All these are essential questions that need answers. The sooner you get information about these questions, the smoother the journey through Alzheimer’s will be, and the more you can maintain a relationship that is meaningful with your family member.

Call the Alzheimer’s Association Helpline at (617) 272-3900. They will give you many of the resources you will need. Find a support group near you. Read books on Alzheimer’s and care-giving. Look for seminars about Alzheimer’s and care-giving.

Immerse yourself in learning in this spring season of heightened awareness. You will not be sorry.

About The Author

Beverly Moore, RN, CS, is owner of StilMee, The leader in Alzheimer coaching, and the author of “Matters of the Mind…and the Heart, Meeting the challenges of Alzheimer care.” Contact her at Beverly.Moore@ StilMee.com or via telephone at (617) 328-3440. She welcomes your questions. Also see her blog, www.StilMeecoach.blogspot.com.