Recognizing Caregivers
On National Caregivers Day we recognize the important role caregivers play in caring for persons living with dementia. Carol McClendon is one of many caregivers who deserves recognition for the care she provides to her mother, Evelyn.
This week Evelyn turned 87. The celebration was small, but Carol and Evelyn have adjusted to a new pace of life during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Prior to the pandemic, Evelyn used to go to the Francis J. Atlas Center, a regional senior center located in the South Shore neighborhood of Chicago, during the days as her social outlet. Now she stays home and keeps busy with crossword puzzles. She calls into church on Sunday, instead of attending in-person.
Without the social support of regular activities in the community, Carol has felt more pressure as she cares for her mother. But she is trying to live in the present, rather than longing for a sense of normalcy. “What I’m finding out is that I’ve got to stop and take care of me,” Carol said. She takes part in a yoga class that helps her to slow down and center herself.
Carol goes into work a few days a week and that is another form of self-care for her. She appreciates chatting with her coworkers who have similar experiences caring for elderly parents. “It gives me reassurance to talk to others about their experiences,” Carol said. “If I can reach out and talk to others about what I’m going through, it releases some of the burden for me.”
Like many of us during the pandemic, Carol enjoys the little things, like watching TV with her mother and sharing meals together. Although it hasn’t been ideal, the silver lining of the pandemic has been spending more time together, which has brought them closer together.
As hard as it can be, Carol continues to empower her mother to do things herself, like warming up her meal in the microwave. It helps to give them both a little more freedom and sense of purpose.