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Caregivers = Adaptation of the Species
Hello Everyone:
I am just getting my thoughts down regarding how much we all have changed in our caregiving roles.
It is part of our evolutionary process to adapt and change so we can survive. Isn't it amazing how much we are all pivoting and re-making ourselves anew to keep up with our caregiving demands and adjust to our new environments.
What prompted me to think about this was looking at two trees in our yard (pictured below). We were gifted these twin trees at the same time. They are planted about 10' from each other. When my husband installed a fence he had to shave and cut one of the trees to accommodate the fencing. The cut tree almost looks as if it is growing a completely different kind of tree out of the top.
We are as amazing as this tree, adapting so we can care for our loved ones. It's evolutionary! We are becoming new people and being challenged along the way.
If nothing else goes right today, at least you can congratulate yourself on your adaptability.
All the best to you today. ☺️
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Yes, Judy.. having to do, and think as I never have before.
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3 Reactions@dederickve Judi.
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1 ReactionWhat a great analogy and you are so right. I known I have grown in my roll as a care giver in the last four years since my husband’s diagnosis. The first few years I handled everything wrong, but I didn’t know any better. Now after reading, searching and educating myself regarding dementia I feel like I am better prepared to handle life on a daily basis. It’s not any easier, but I have a better understanding of my husband’s behavior and instead of trying to correct or change him, I am learning to adapt to his world. Thank you for sharing your trees. 😊
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5 ReactionsWow, the @judimahoney 's tree is like a metaphor for change. However, thanks to your pic we can see how the tree when cut back, adapted well to its new environment and to change. I love this Judi, thank you. This first year for me with my husband's MCI, has been extremely stressful, dealing with the medical, his "brain changes," fear of the unknown, and being plucked out of our house in a rental and in storage where every belonging we own is in there. And the financial mess, with no insurance coverage. However, it's also been a growth year and one of gratitude and appreciation for everyone on this site that continues to share their role as a caregiver.
Best, Karla
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4 Reactions@judimahoney This is just brilliant! May we all continue to be a tree. We bend but we don't break...and we adjust to surroundings beautifully. Thank you for your beautiful insight.
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4 Reactions