[Bonfire]

Writing letters, journaling. Manicure, having a manicure setup so my nails were always short, clean and snag free and my hands soft. With washing them so frequently they can get rough and even cracked. Preparing questions for client or loved one for “time capsule” type remaining remembrance of them. Example: A simple question would be – Did you have a favorite school teacher? And then just continue to let them talk and talk. Keeping the conversation going. I would record them and just keep this for myself or their family if it was a client. This is my quick brainstorming at the moment. Very thoughtful question. Good – What a Blessing this place is… I Bless you

[FaithK]

Hi! There’s a book called “At the Feet of Our Elders”, about $4 on Amazon. It’s 45 guided questions for the elderly to open communication and glean their history. I’ve heard really good things about it. There’s also lists of “elderly interview” questions you can search for online.

[Sandra]

Checking out YouTube videos, and the internet for information that might help the one am carrying for, if the power goes out I enjoy reading, for sitting and trying not to worry as much about the one am carrying for, Like sitting with them in the hospital or Doctors visits, I take my knitting or crochet with me. Then there’s always cleaning, cooking and praying if you’re taking care of them at home. Even when someone is sick things still have to be done.

[Thankfulcreekfarm]

Our son was in a horrific car accident in July, and we spent 6 weeks in the hospital with him. I listened to podcasts, watched homesteading videos, wrote thank you cards, read my Bible and did some journaling. When I had a chance to step away I would go outside for a short walk to get fresh air. When it was raining I walked the stairs for exercise.

[cloud]

Thank ya’ll for this discussion….This is real life……I am nearing to this phase in life as my par excellence homesteader parents are becoming more fragile. They have taken care of my two siblings who have life-long difficult medical conditions. You can’t find two more wonderful people.

I work full-time. Somehow with God’s help we will make it. Y’all keep us in your prayers.

[TreasureSeekerSOJ]

My care giving days are behind me. In 2004 I had 3 (spouse, father, and mother) in wheelchairs. It was a ton of work insuring they were all taken care of. During this time there was a organization I found locally that actually paid someone to come take care of my charges so I could get a break at least once a year for a week or two, as well as once a month for a few hours. I do remember they were paid by the state, so that might be someplace to look for an organization. If any one is taking care of family try to find an organization who does this locally to you. I personally can say it was a god send for me, the breaks were definitely needed.

[Momatomic]

@cloud God will show you the way! It won’t be easy, but you will get through it. I’m praying for you and your family. Reach out to every organization that might be able to help you in your state. Start planning now for the future and never give up.

I moved my Dad with Parkinson’s and Autistic brother 5 house down from us 3 years ago to take care of them. Within the last year, I’ve had to purchase a new house that would fit my brother (and all his needs), my husband and 3 kids. I wish, I had the paperwork in order and a plan in place before I was overwhelmed with the 24 hour care that my Dad would need at the end. And no energy or time to think about the future. It would of made my life easier. But I made it through stronger, smarter and with faith that is unbreakable! You can too!!

[cloud]

Thank you Momatomic for those encouraging words…

It is comforting to hear from those who have gone or going through it

[Momatomic]

You’re very welcome, @cloud!!