“Being a caregiver made me a better person and worse employee,” were the exact words that an attendee in my workshop shared with me. We were having a sidebar conversation during the break. I was delivering a Stress Management seminar on behalf of an EAP (Employee Assistance Program). For all of the times I’ve gone blank with my mind racing for...
These are actual quotes from actual family caregivers in response to the prompt— I never thought… “I never thought I would care so deeply, or be so passionate, or be so tired!” L “I never thought that, rather than struggle to overcome my basically selfish nature, I’d find myself missing it. Because I do! That part of me that actually puts...
According to the Pantone Color Institute, Ultra Violet is the color of the year 2018. In common terms, it’s a super bright purple. It just so happens that caregiver awareness and appreciation is represented by the color purple. The color also represents, Alzheimer's Disease, Attention Deficit Disorder, ADHD, Animal Abuse, Cancer Survivors, Chiari Malformation, Crohn's Disease, Cystic Fibrosis, Domestic Violence,...
I’m delighted to end the year, similar to how I began, with a guest blog on a topic that is growing in importance to all caregivers— better care through technology. Especially relevant during this time of year, consider how gifts might contribute to caregiving. When we’re blessed with the occasional question of what kind of gift would you like, there’s always...
November is National Family Caregivers Month. This year’s theme recognizes the ‘round the clock’ challenges that caregivers face. The thing is, you never know when you will need to rush to the hospital or leave work at the drop of a hat. I don’t often post reprints as I much prefer my own monthly commentary. However, this is a great quick read...
Last June, Denise Brown, founder of Caregiving.com, hosted the Caregiving and the Workplace Summit. From that event, a working group formed who are committed to improving the lives of those who work and manage caregiving responsibilities. The group’s first initiative has launched and we’re glad to support it! Kindly take this eight question survey to share how well your company supports...
I suppose I walked right into that one. You can’t post a “Top 10 Things Not to Say” blog, without expecting a few friendly emails asking, “Well, what can or should I say?” Actually, I loved being asked because it shows how many people care! In reality, family caregivers often find that their superficial compadres scatter or drift away. I suspect...
Working professionals who have intergenerational responsibilities, (aka- the pull of sandwich generation child and elder care) would love if friends and colleagues understood how some comments sound, well, pardon me for saying— insensitive. So, this is for you - Employers, Managers and well intentioned colleagues. I thought you might find it helpful to have generalized insight to some of the common...
Sitting in traffic today, the radio DJ made me smile to hear that “escaping to the beach” ranked as one of the top five most common shared fantasies. (second to winning the lottery) We should all be so lucky to have the time and means to escape to the shore. Or for that matter, wherever your favorite vacation spot is located,...
Most of the working family caregivers I know are thrilled that the holidays are behind us, but are not necessarily making stellar plans for the New Year. As fun as holiday gift exchanges, unexpected treats and festive gatherings can be, they can throw off much needed routines and already overloaded schedules. Returning to a predictable day is as comfortable as...
