No matter how you ended up being a caregiver for a loved one, the journey is a struggle. Whether you are a senior spouse caring for a sick partner, a mother caring for both an elderly parent and your own children, or a single person that is stepping in to help an elder friend, caregiving is a path that changes lives.
There have been several research studies done that show the journey that most caregivers take consists of seven stages, not unlike the stages of grief. We’ll go over each in a little more detail in upcoming blog posts, but here is an overview:
Stage 1- Being told the diagnosis, and coping with the news
Stage 2- Questioning- to be a caregiver or not?
Stage 3- The at home caregiving journey
Stage 4- Considering institutional placement
Stage 5- Caregiving during institutional placement
Stage 6- Facing death and grief
Stage 7- Resuming normal life and healing
It is never easy to learn that someone you love has been diagnosed with a condition that makes them unable to be independent. You are not alone, and there are resources available to help you make the best decisions possible during this tough time. An experienced elder law attorney can help you navigate the rough waters and make the best decisions for your loved one.
