Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate: Dr. Cynthia Speaks!

Topic: Normalcy in the Role of Caregiving

Now that we are getting close to returning to some form of normalcy, we must realize that our new norm has created many new opportunities for growth as a caregiver. The initial thought that is front and center for me is gratefulness. I am grateful that I have managed to stay safe during a year of uncertainty and loss. I am thankful that I get to share my caregiving story with the world, to give nuggets to others currently experiencing the ups and downs of being a caregiver. It is not an easy job. The demands on a caregiver offer wear and tear on the body as well as the mind. Yet, we seek normalcy, the way it was before we were shut down, shut up, shut out, and separated from people, places, and things.

I believe nothing happens by mistake. The events that have happened to us over the past year were really designed to redirect our mindset. It showed us how unprepared we were as caregivers. That is hard to wrap our minds around our imperfections. The truthfulness of being reactive versus proactive had slapped us in the face. One example of our reactive behaviors was when toilet paper was in high demand. Then, supermarkets started rationing the product making matters worse. That needed resource was not in place. A surplus of medications for the care recipient was not in place. We did not have gas in our cars. We had loves ones in facilities that we could not visit — what a traumatic experience for the elderly unable to touch their family. We did not have end-of-life plans in place.

What is this blog about?

It is about looking at the past to prepare for the future. Take the opportunity to reflect on what you could have done differently. By doing so, you will understand that a new normal is what you must work toward. I have heard many say that they just want to get back to normal.

As your Proactive Caregiver Advocate, I say look toward a new normal. As many of us found out, our normal did not work. I encourage you to seek a new normal. If you have not considered the importance of being proactive and prepared, let’s talk!