RichieB
I cared for my elderly Dad and my elderly Aunt, sometimes simultaneously, during the last years of their lives. At times it was a real test, but mostly,
a great joy. As their minds began to leave the everyday to yesterday I found
it was easier to plan when I could recognize a fear or a worry. Once I understood I was leading them to their own unknown, and that they were
frightened, it made the caring much more important and easier. There was
a period of nearly two years in which my life was intertwined with theirs...it
was difficult for the most part, but ultimately their passing made me understand I gave them each a safe passage. Sometimes if you flip it around and say...well they took care of me at times they didn't want to or had other things to do....it makes it easier. However, full time caregiving of an elderly
relative is a full time job, and usually it doesn't feel that way until the end is approaching. Good luck.
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