Summary:
In this episode, Carole shares her personal caretaking journey for her mother in Milwaukee.
She discusses the challenges of making difficult decisions and navigating the healthcare system.
She also explores the process of grieving and coming to terms with the loss of her mother's independence.
Carole emphasizes the importance of listening, asking the right questions, and being patient when making decisions for a loved one who can no longer care for themselves.
She also highlights the need for self-care and encourages listeners to take breaks and prioritize their well-being.
Takeaways:
- Making decisions for a loved one who can no longer care for themselves is challenging and requires listening, asking the right questions, and being patient.
- Grief can take many forms and can begin before the passing of a loved one. It is important to allow oneself to grieve and process the emotions that come with caretaking.
- Taking breaks and prioritizing self-care is crucial for caretakers to maintain their well-being and mental health.
- Navigating the healthcare system can be overwhelming, but seeking support from advocates and healthcare professionals can help in making informed decisions.
- Accepting and coming to terms with the loss of a loved one's independence is a part of the caretaking journey.
- Prioritizing Self-Care as a Caretaker
- Making Difficult Decisions in Caretaking
- "How do you make those decisions when a loved one can no longer care for themselves?"
- "Learning to grieve, letting myself grieve, letting myself cry, letting myself feel the emotions, letting myself accept what is lost, what will never be."
- "The caretaker's journey is not for the faint of heart and it is a lot of stress."
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Setting the Context
06:40 Navigating the Grief Process in Caretaking
10:33 Prioritizing Self-Care as a Caretaker
13:08 Understanding the Healthcare System in Caretaking
25:18 Preparing for the Future and Grieving What Will Never Be
28:19 Conclusion and Encouragement for Caretakers
Connect with Carole:
Website - https://www.thecaretakersjourney.com/
Social Media -
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carolesjourney/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carolesjourney
Book - https://www.carolesjourney.com/book
