For me caregiving for my dad with dementia took a toll on me and my entire family, it’s very demanding role, it started by worrying about my dad living alone, then I found myself taking over of the responsibilities for him, no one prepared me for this!
What about you guys?
This is a future job that I have no training, no experience, no patience, no understanding, and I am too old to do this.... in fact, if I went to a Caregiver Agency to sign up to work as a caregiver, I would never be hired. So why do so many people and my parents think I can do this job [for when it become 24/7 at a later date]?
I am a paid caregiver, and have been doing this for 16 years....and am burned to the core of being...... no,it's not the same as 24/7. I do get to go home.... had one live in job and said NEVER again.... my issues are not only with the person or persons I care for, but the added stress of families.... on may days I feel like a caregiver sandwich..... in the middle of all of it.... and many times not allowed to do my job in a way that would benefit everyone, as families have their own ideas about how things should be done....
It takes the life out of me... my spirit is dimmer, my tolerance is short lived, my compassion doesn't touch my heart anymore...... so hope you continue to post here, read, get support..... listen to what others have been thru, and how they coped.... it is a very difficult job on the best days.... wishing you energy and love on this journey that will change your life forever.... prayers for strength and take care of yourself somewhere in the madness...