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Having taken care of  my mother, and briefly taken care of my father years ago, I realize now how very important any organization is that can give help to caregivers.  At that time I was so involved in the daily routine, and being prepared for the unforeseen, I had never heard of an organization that might have provided resources for me!  There was talk of day care, but prying an older person who could hardly move from the house seemed worthless to me.  Now there are many more resources, and with the internet much easier to research, and find.

More recently, I have been involved in the creating of journal covers, and pages to be put together for individual  caregivers.  It’s so much fun, and rewarding to know that you are touching the life of someone who really needs support, and love from the outside world.  Having been in that position, and feeling really alone, I would have been so grateful for anyone who could have provided suggestions for help!   Sure there was my husband, and kids, but they didn’t have any more ideas than I had, and they helped out as much as they could.  But, when it is your parents that you are taking care of, the stress is on your shoulders.

Yesterday in my email, there was a notice from Southern Caregivers Resource Center in San Diego, Ca.  They were announcing a conference for caregivers, and even providing care for the  loved ones while the caregivers were attending.  You can’t beat that!  The resources they can provide for any one of us that is caring for a loved one at this time is priceless.  If only I had known of them when I needed them most!  Most likely there are  other resources out there to choose from, but this is the one I’ve been involved with, and have grown to appreciate.

It’s certainly worth the time to check them out, and see if even in a small way they may be of help.  I hope this will help some of you with the huge challenge you are going through!

Friday October 26 is the first seminar entitled “Finding the Balance In Caregiving.”