Support for Caregivers

Caring for a loved one with a chronic illness such as dementia, heart disease, Parkinson's disease or stroke can be stressful physically, emotionally and financially. This stressful task often falls on a spouse, sibling or adult child. The job can become frustrating, tiring and lonely. Caregivers cope with significant losses: the loss of their "normal" relationship with this partner, parent, family member, or friend; the loss of freedom that accompanies the responsibilities of caregiving; loss of income and social contacts. Caregivers may also have fears about the future. It can be hard to change and adapt and to recognize and find comfort in what is good and familiar in your relationship with the person receiving care.

Caregivers don't have to feel alone. The experience of caring for a loved one can be eased and enriched by learning from and sharing with other caregivers. For more information about Grace's Caregiver Support Ministry contact the Parish Nurse, MaryBeth Buschmann, RN, PhD at mbuschmann@graceriverforest.org.