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Acceptance
I’ve had a difficult time navigating my mother’s decline with dementia. Losing my job, insurance and social life to become her caregiver - sharing with my sister. Maybe it’s defeat, but I call it acceptance. I finally just let go of my anger and see this as a chapter. A chapter from hell, but I know it will end.
I read other caregivers struggles and my heart breaks for everyone. Dementia is a thief of joy. I hate it. I only hope to be resilient enough to come out of this chapter intact. Just sharing my thoughts and sending everyone a virtual hug. 🤗Thankful for communities like this one - it helps to feel less alone in the exhausting and relentless struggle that is dementia. Spring reminds me that life is a series of ever changing seasons. Hang in there!
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Gratia,
I admire you for giving up everything to take care of your Mom when she really needs a loving person in her life to care for her! It's hard when your Mom has problems but one day you will be glad that you had this time with your Mom. She probably realizes that something is wrong with her even though she may not say it. That is scary for someone; especially when they can't fix what's wrong. I'm sure she is very glad to have you and your sister caring for her.
My Mom had pulmonary emphysema. I took care of her until she died. Like you I basically gave up my life to care for Mom. But I'm so glad I had those years with her. I still miss her! She's been gone for 35 years.
Prayer also helps. God was there for me and Mom and he will be there for you and your Mom also. I will say a prayer for the both of you.
I wish you both the best.
PML
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6 ReactionsGratia,
In my reply to you, I forgot to mention the beautiful pictures you included! Thank you for that! I enjoyed them.
PML
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4 ReactionsGratia, you and your sister are a blessing to your mother. Just as she gave you life, you are completing the cycle of life at her side. I am sure she knows that in her heart.
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7 Reactions@pml Thank you so much for your positive comments and encouragement. Sending you virtual hugs 🤗
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2 Reactions@ret2tus Thank you so much for your kind words. I truly appreciate your thoughtfulness!
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2 ReactionsHi Gratia, yes this phase definitely tests our resolves. Keep expressing, I find this helps along with feedback of being heard. We hear you. I think I fluctuate as much as my Mom. Acceptance, grief, joy in the moment, sad, anger, acceptance..... Hang in there.
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8 ReactionsGratia, what the world needs now is love, and you are giving love to your mother in whatever way she can accept it. Best, Karla
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7 Reactions@tracidw yes, it’s such a wide range of emotions to navigate. The exhaustion of being a caregiver and the stresses it entails make it a lot more challenging to find balance and peace of mind. I find creative outlets to be lifesavers. I used to be very active physically but being “hungover” from sleep deprivation makes it hard to do too much exercise- even while knowing well how good endorphins are for us!
I send virtual hugs and support!
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4 Reactions@kjc48 I agree - the world needs more compassion and kindness and love & we can all do our part 🤗❤️
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