Reimagining Dementia: Empowering Caregivers to Find Joy ??
Navigating the maze of caregiving, especially through the obstacles of Alzheimer's, can indeed be a Herculean task. Finding joy amid the struggle may seem like an elusive concept, but it's possible.
While advice to "find joy" may have initially felt frustrating, I understand it takes more than words. It requires forging your unique path. For some, it's a simple triumph—like a successful outing despite the chaos. For others, it's the absence of struggle in daily routines or that precious smile at the right moment.
Here's a key: redefine joy for yourself. It's not just happiness; it's peace, calm, and the satisfaction of accomplishing tasks. Begin your day with gratitude, cherishing those quiet moments or a breakfast enjoyed together. At night, celebrate your victories, whether it's tackling your to-do list or giving yourself permission to throw it away.
Here’s one I wish I had tried more; Be joyous around your loved one. Engage them in laughter, reminisce about happier times, or enjoy a light-hearted movie. Remember, they are more than their illness; you are more than a caregiver. Embrace this truth, and you'll find joy in your unique journey. I really wish I could go back and give this a try.
In what ways will you attempt to have more joy in your life?
This Week’s Episode:
From Struggle To Resilience: ?Finding Joy in the Face of Dementia
We're turning the tables in our latest conversation with the insightful Mary Fridley, co-founder of the Joy of Dementia and Reimagining Dementia. Mary brings us face-to-face with the often-overlooked aspect of caregiving - the power of community, joy, and improvisation. This is not just about managing those living with dementia; it's about creating connections, fostering meaningful relationships, and injecting moments of play and creativity into their lives.
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Want some advice on how to use journaling to find joy? This episode lays out an entirely new option to consider.
Catch-up episode:
Lots of Self-Care Strategies, Ep #123
In this episode, I bring as many tips, suggestions, and ideas as possible in an hour. My guest, Barbara Cohn, cared for her husband for a decade. He had younger-onset Alzheimer’s. In writing her book Calmer Waters, it was Barbaras' goal to help other caregivers feel happier, have more energy and time for themselves, sleep better, and feel more relaxed.