Senior care is a draining marathon. Surprising hidden gifts are embedded within back- and spirit-breaking hardship. But you must FIRST remember"
7. Self-Care is a Necessity. It's not a luxury squeezed in after chores.
Daily time for you isn't negotiable. Exactly when you're exhausted, you must recharge. Checking email or doing the dishes doesn't cut it! Bubble baths and a fun magazine do. The coaching term, "extreme self-care" doesn't imply selfishness. Nurturing yourself is analogous to donning your own oxygen mask first in an airline emergency.
Parting Encouragements
Forget sanctimonious societal messages that subtly or overtly criticize you for not interpreting 24-hour eldercare as a privilege! Have they walked a mile in your lead-heavy shoes? No!
I know, some days I doubted my own survival. Just when can't imagine taking another step, you'll find the strength.
You're not alone. You have my unbridled empathy. Believe that you'll ultimately journey from desperation to inspiration to hope.
