Caregivers

I just returned home from a trip to Americus, Georgia where I learned about the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers. Because I am the primary caregiver for my mother who lives with Alzheimer's disease, I found the RCI to be a treasure. The institute is located on the campus of Georgia Southwestern University in Americus. www.rosalynncarter.org The purpose of the institute is to support caregivers and to provide help for those who care for family members in the home. I have been responsible for my mother's care for over four years. Each decision made along the way has come as part of an entirely new education process for me. In spite of the fact that I am a pastor and a registered nurse, I have felt unprepared for dealing with my mother's deteriorating condition and the costs...emotional, social, physical and financial. The RCI has given thought to all aspects of living with and caring for aging and ill family members. The program trains professionals to take leadership roles in communities: advocating for, teaching and providing support in the lives of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances.

I wonder about other people out there...middle aged working people who have found yourself responsible for the care of your mother and/ or father. I wonder what kinds of support you have found for your daily life. I wonder what lessons you have learned. I would like to start a conversation... so let me hear from you.