Everyone wants to be loved. No one wants to be hurt. We all strive for acceptance. As adults, it still makes our day when we do or say something that gets approval. Caregiving is a part of that loving, caring, acceptance and approval. My recent participation in the Memory Walk for Alzheimer’s demonstrated that love and acceptance. There were so many people walking for the cause. Some were there because they wanted to show their loved ones they cared. Others were there to offer support for the friends and family who had been affected by Alzheimer’s. I would imagine some walkers were even there because they enjoyed walking. Did I forget to mention those who wanted to be noticed. Whatever the reason, we all benefited. There were walkers wearing t shirts with photos of their loved ones. Walkers were carrying banners, posters, wearing necklaces, singing, running. Some participants were in wheelchairs, strollers, on skates,skateboards. Do our loved ones appreciate we are champions for this cause? Does it make a difference to them? Many people care about Alzheimer’s and are doing their part to make a difference?
Who is Caring for You
I was assisting a friend who is a caregiver. I was amazed at the co-dependency between her and her mother. Neither had very much independence. They both have health issues that may be related to this lifestyle.Are they aware of this situation? Are they willing to discuss it? The most important question is, are they willing to act on it to make their lives more balanced? I suggested activities to free them on occasion from their usual routine. Neither of them were receptive. This isolation can cause anxiety, confusion, stress and even depression. I will continue to offer ideas that may encourage them to take breaks from each other.
Your Award
The recent and upcoming award shows receive our attention. The celebrities look beautiful. The events appear to be fun. How often do you give awards? No, there does not have to be a trophy or a certificate. Words are so important. Actions are more important. Who deserves an award from you? When was the last time you received an award? Let’s add the special touch and give yourself an award today. Later, today bestow a special unsuspecting award on a very deserving person in your life. We are all worthy.
Are you Empowered?
Are you allowing others to determine how you feel, what works in your life, when and how you make decisions? What is your next move? Do you feel that you have a choice in your decisions? Are the decisions you make most beneficial to you? Being empowered allows us to accept what is. It gives us choices. Our decisions can make our lives simpler and easier. Let’s make choices to be who we were really meant to be. We can empower ourselves. Everyone benefits from this experience