Hope for the Caregiver

Rock of Ages - Cleft for Caregivers

Legend has it that Augustus Toplady took shelter during a storm in a fissure he discovered in a large rock wall. The visual stuck with him and led him to write the first line of one of the most familiar hymns in Church history. "Rock of Ages, Cleft for Me."

We discussed this and more in our broadcast that aired on 11/6/2021. 
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Impact of Opioids on Family Caregivers

When a loved one takes opioids - even when prescribed and as ordered - what is the impact on the family caregiver?

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Playing This Song Slower Forever Changed It For Me

From our national broadcast 10/23/2021.

HopeForTheCaregiver.com 

 

Honoring an Abusive, Alcoholic Father

A caller named Bill once shared on our program for caregivers that his father was an abusive alcoholic for years. Now, Bill's father’s had a stroke and requires extensive care - but sadly still drinks. Bill went on to say that he’s although he’s over 50 with a wife and kids, he still feels like a terrified 9-year-old when he’s around his father.

Bill’s father made his own decisions – decisions that evidently did not involve a recovery plan.

I shared with Bill that he can only do his best, but his family needs the 50-year-old version of BILL —not the 9-year-old one. Bill’s well-being remains paramount to his family. To be blunt, his father’s well-being, while desirable, does not. Although it sounds harsh, the reality is Bill’s father may not make it, but Bill must. I commended Bill for working to ensure his father’s safety and care despite the trauma that man caused. But I also cautioned Bill on the importance of securing his own care and well-being by attending a recovery program for family members of alcoholics and even counseling. Honoring your mother father does not mean honoring alcoholism, addiction …or even abuse.

Caregiver Authority

CAREGIVER AUTHORITY

Weary of condescension from a physician years ago regarding my wife’s condition, I leveled my gaze at him and stated, “With all due respect, Doc – I was taking care of her when you were in junior high school. So how about we keep this in perspective?’

We may not know .the science, but we know our loved one. That knowledge and experience provides us with something I coined “Caregiver Authority.” Quality practitioners recognize the benefit of enlisting our hard-won insights.  After dealing with 100+ physicians and countless nurses, I learned years ago that training doesn’t make one a better human being - it simply provides a skill set. Sadly (for some), those skill sets can elevate a sense of importance. Part of our job as caregivers is to advocate – and sometimes that means standing up to people who are dismissive or look down upon others.

It’s uncomfortable to wield caregiver authority, but if we don’t, what are the consequences? If we’re wrong, then we apologize and make amends to the best of our abilities. If they’re wrong, the consequences are far more dire.

“So on we go, His welfare is of my concern.”- from He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother

Do You Feel Seen?

All too many caregivers feel isolated and invisible. Even when seen, it's difficult to know what to say to caregiver. This is why I do this broadcast, the podcast, write books, and all the other things I do for caregivers.  I understand the importance for caregivers to be seen and engaged - in a way that makes sense to caregivers. i speak fluent caregiver, and am grateful for the opportunity to speak to you through this podcast. 

I see you. 

Peter Rosenberger

www.hopeforthecaregiver.com 

 

This is the Day

A simple song with a powerful message to family caregivers. Plus, callers from the show and a powerful "D" block monologue.

 

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