September 11, 2024

Consider the fact that today, family caregivers represent over one in five Americans. Statistics alone can only point to the growing need for support for the caregivers who comprise this fact. It can be considered an epidemic as statistically, numbers are on the rise.

Who or what can assist caregivers in the solitary, monumental task of caring for a loved one in mental/physical decline? The government is slow to augment burdens, financially, and care-wise. Facility placement becomes more costly, with less insurance aid to offset expenses. Long-term care insurance, once a reasonably affordable answer for augmenting mounting costs in assisted living facilities, has risen sharply over the last few years, seemingly as application numbers increase.

At the moment, the only two alternatives for on-going care for loved ones in mental/physical decline are in-home care or placement in an assisted living community. The family caregiver must deal with a myriad of issues in providing care for a declining loved one, not the least of which involves isolation and loneliness.

A good caregiver support group can be a lifeline, providing a place to share feelings confidentially, make friends, get help navigating the health care system, and learn from others who have walked a similar path. A supportive community develops among members with the opportunity to experience a connectedness with individuals who "get" one another without the fear of judgement or need for "correction."

In the company of like-minded people, one can feel comfortable voicing one's frustrations, questions, or accomplishments without having to explain ones self. In addition, support groups provide a safe place where one can vent negative emotions and not feel judged.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO SHARE STRUGGLES?

1. We heal through connectedness 

2. We realize that others struggle, too

3. Talking helps us process

4. We break the stigma

5. We develop self acceptance

6. We find support

7. We realize we are not alone

8. Our journeys may become a survival guide for others

9. We don't bottle things up inside

10. Connectedness empowers us

11. Our basic needs for acceptance, to be understood, and belong are met

12. We connect with our authentic self

Acceptance, collectively and personally, becomes easier to attain.

CARING FOR THE CAREGIVER

SUPPORT GROUPS

DayBreak proudly offers caregiver support groups that continue to create a warm and inclusive community for caregivers caring for loved ones in cognitive/physical decline.

We meet three times a week on zoom: 

• Mondays from 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
• Wednesdays from 1:00-2:00 PM
• Thursdays from 1:00 - 2:00 PM

Comfort calls and check-in phone outreach are offered as need presents.

Now, caregivers: For a moment, let's imagine that a voice could be put to the gratitude our loved ones would wish to express to us. 

It could well sound much like this:

THANK YOU FOR LOVING ME ENOUGH TO TAKE CARE OF ME.

*Thank you for the times your meal is cold, because you make mine first.

*Thank you for the times you wake up at night to check that I am safely sleeping.

*Thank you for the times you worry about me, pray for me, want the best for me.

*Thank you for the times you are strong for me, advocate on my behalf, and fight for me.

*Thank you for the times you patiently put up with me when I am difficult.

*Thank you for putting my needs first when it feels like yours always come last.

*Thank you for the times you forgive me when I hurt you with my words or actions.

*Thank you for the times you go without a hug, a thank you, a kiss, or a smile from me.

*Thank you for being there for me even when I can no longer do the same for you.

*Thank you for staying right beside me, even though being together may make you feel even more alone.

THANK YOU FOR LOVING ME ENOUGH TO TAKE CARE OF ME!

— Karen Kelleher, MA

Family Caregiver Support Coordinator

Quality of life, dignity, and the right to self-determination are at the heart of our work with our clients and community. Every contribution, no matter the size, directly impacts the well-being of those in our care. Join us in making a difference!

DayBreak is dedicated to empowering seniors and supporting caregivers.

If you know an elder in need of our care and coordination services, or a caregiver seeking support, please encourage them to reach out to us at: 

510-834-8314