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Natural Awakenings Twin Cities

Caregivers: Cherish the Moments

Aug 30, 2014 10:02AM ● By Jennifer Oleson

Caregiving is an honor and a privilege. Most of us would not hesitate to commit to supporting our loved ones in need. However, the extent of this commitment is often revealed to us gradually, over the term of our loved one’s illness or decline of health and memory.

Frequent comments from family members seeking caregiving support are, “I didn’t realize how much work it would be” and “I didn’t expect it to go on this long.” Through the process of caring for the immediate and functional needs of our family member, we can lose sight of why we committed to their care to begin with. 

It’s important to stop and remember that we do it out of love and respect for an individual who has been significant in our lives. We must make an effort each day to remember this and share a moment with that person and truly be present. We can pause from the tasks of the day, look the person in the eyes and share a moment together. A smile, a joke or simply saying “I love you” can mean a lot to someone who is struggling.

Regardless of what illness has taken, it cannot rob us of the love that binds us together.

Jennifer Oleson is the co-owner of Home Helpers of the Twin Cities. For more information, call 612-518-5741, email [email protected] or visit HomeCareSt.PaulMNcom.