A spousal caregiver recently told me he looks at his watch all day for the time he will experience the joy of seeing his wife and when his eyes meet hers his joy turns to pain as she can’t remember who he is.
Love never ends – and for spousal caregivers, traveling the journey of dementia, pain remains a constant. The days of yesterday remain alive for the well spouse as the ill spouse slips away daily to a place none of us can comprehend.
For those of us not on this caregiving journey, may we find it in our heart to reach out to that well spouse and give them some reassurance and pleasure – perhaps with a shared meal or a drive in the country. It might also mean a walk on a beautiful fall day or a trip to a movie on a rainy winter day.
Invite the well spouse for some quality moments with you because when they are alone or make those daily visits, they often feel a very deep sadness.
Be a friend or family member who cares with creativity and love.
Richard Anderson says
April 11, 2012 at 6:23 amDear Linda:
And for spousal caregivers, may I recommend the Well Spouse™ Association — offering peer emotional support to husbands, wives or partners of people with chronic illness and/or long-term disability.
Richard
Richard Anderson says
April 11, 2012 at 6:23 amDear Linda:
And for spousal caregivers, may I recommend the Well Spouse™ Association — offering peer emotional support to husbands, wives or partners of people with chronic illness and/or long-term disability.
Richard