Sharing wisdom that comes from parenting our parents
Anger and aggressive behavior are among the most challenging realities many caregivers face. When dementia progresses, personality changes, verbal outbursts, threats, and other forms of aggression can become symptoms of the disease itself. Understanding this does not make those moments hurt any less, but it can help caregivers recognize that these behaviors are often part …
Continue reading "Anger, Aggression, and the Unexpected Growth of a Caregiver"
I guess you haven’t lived until your mother leaves you an expletive-filled phone message because she doesn’t understand what is happening around her. There are shadowy characters she believes are sneaking into her apartment to rob her of her belongings—belongings she once told me she donated when she downsized to her current residence. Try making …
Continue reading "When Dementia Turns Fear Into Anger: Understanding Agitation as a Caregiver"
Caregiving changes a person. It has a way of stripping life down to what matters most and forcing us to confront challenges that many people spend their lives avoiding. Through that process, caregivers develop something invaluable: strength of character. Not the loud kind of strength that demands attention. The quieter kind that comes from showing …
Caregiving has a way of reshaping us. Many of us step into the role because we’re kind, responsible, or simply the eldest who was told one too many times, “Be nice to your sisters. You’re the oldest.” That early conditioning sticks. It teaches us to smooth rough edges, avoid conflict, and keep everyone happy. And …
Continue reading "When “Being the Nice Guy” Stops Being Enough: Hidden Emotional Work of Caregiving"
