Caregivers deserve thanks every month of the year, and November is the month to remind us of that. Keeping a person with dementia safe, content, fed and cared for is a 24-7 job. Understandably caregivers often feel alone and unappreciated. This month we are saying to caregivers, “You are appreciated!”
Say Thank You Do you know someone who is caring for a person with dementia? Just saying Thank You acknowledges their work and makes them feel valued. Express gratitude for the small and large things they do for their loved one.
Make a Friend Get to know about the life of this caregiver, what she/he likes, what her hobbies are, maybe take note of her birthday and send a card. Learn what is most difficult about her caregiving job. Giving her a chance to share with someone who is actively listening can be very comforting.
Send a Thank You Note Often, writing instead of speaking makes it simpler to show gratitude. Choose a beautiful card and send it through the mail. Such a simple thing can make someone’s day. Perhaps you have a parent who is being cared for by one of your siblings. Your non-judgmental expression of appreciation will mean a lot.
Include a Gift Card! Take your thank you card up a notch and include a gift card for a take-out meal, gas, a massage or pedicure. The options are endless.
Encourage Self Care Being a caregiver is emotionally and physically taxing. Caregivers need to be encouraged to take a break and care for their own needs. Look into Whitewater’s ’”Rockin’ Respite” program where caregivers can drop off their loved ones two days a month and know they are receiving social and emotional stimulation. The loved one is paired with a volunteer whose job it is to give their full attention to their friend-for-a-day. An activity director keeps everyone busy with crafts, light exercise, games. music and puzzles. Caregivers can make necessary appointments, go shopping, have lunch with a friend, relax at home or have an undisturbed nap. Contact Jennifer at Seniors in the Park (jfrench@whitewater-wi.gov or call 262-473-0535) to find out more.
THANK YOU, CAREGIVERS!
For more information, go to https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/getting-help-alzheimers-caregiving
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This article submitted by Dementia Friendly Community Initiative, a program of Whitewater Seniors in the Park (SITP) to help inform the community about dementia and to support caregivers and their loved ones. New members are always welcome! Contact Jennifer jfrench@whitewater-wi.gov or call 262 473 0535. More resources for caregivers:
https://www.co.walworth.wi.us/376/Aging-Disability-Resource-Center
