@soul
Really important to remind ourselves that the literature says that caregivers over age 70 face a 63% higher mortality risk of dying before the people they are caring for, compared to non-caregivers. And those under 70 are also at risk--between 18 and 40%. Self-care is not selfish, and feelings of guilt about exercising it are not uncommon. For several years--until my own caregiving responsibilities became more profound--I raised money at our local Area Agency on Aging. I learned first-hand of the amazing list of services this nation-wide organization can provide for caregivers. Please, please take advantage of them. Far too often, AAA's are invisible resources within a community, so you may need to do a bit of research to find your local branch. But I promise, it is worth the effort. Bette