After years of caring for someone with Alzheimers and now caring for an stroke victim, two things are apparent:
1. The US healthcare system for the elderly is an abomination
2. I am not cut out to be a nurse
Still, here we are.
@Stonekettle
I know. I am so sorry you're going through this. The health system sucks, and nursing is incredibly difficult.
We were all supposed to die sooner, some of us didn't get the memo
@Stonekettle
I understand did the same for both parents until they died. Get help if you can, also look for organizations that help caregiver.
@Stonekettle We are also in a bit of the same predicament as you, and completely agree with both of your points. Good on you for doing your best.
@Stonekettle , I'd offer to top off your coffee, but you don't do the cheap rotgut anymore. So, I'll just listen. 🫂
@Stonekettle This is also my truth. Sending strength. 💪🏾
Same. Alzheimer's is a beast.
@Stonekettle
We are going through that here. Alzheimer's is terrible. The healthcare system is terrible. There are many caring and compassionate people in the system, but the system itself wants us all dead.
That said, we are all stronger and more capable than we realize, especially when loved ones are involved. But cripes it takes a toll.
Everyone going through this: take breaks; take care of yourselves too; GET SLEEP. The impact is cumulative.
@Stonekettle Caregiving is hard. I am my disabled adult daughter’s caregiver. I don’t mind the work, but I resent all the time I am forced to deal with insurance issues. Phone calls, prior authorization, meetings. 😕
If you’re interested, my friend shared this information about a study for dementia caregivers. I serve on my local ADRC board and will be sharing this there next meeting.
@Stonekettle it’s through the University of Wisconsin.
When my 12 years in Switzerland ended, in January 2010, I returned to Denver, and this issue of The Atlantic magazine was on my brother's coffee table.
Strong analysis!
@Stonekettle Been there. It's awful.
@Stonekettle Sadly, I share that experience and assessment. Caregivers are advocates and much more.
@Stonekettle MS and Alzheimer's for me, and I know what you mean.
@Stonekettle
i hear you on ALL of that!