Hi Memory Partners!

Most of you know by now that as a new and growing program, things often change in the Memory Partners world. Recently, we formed new teams and have altered the way we schedule quarterly consultations. Instead of consulting with a nurse or a social worker, we will be working together so that you get both a nurse and a social worker. However, instead of meeting with both disciplines each quarter, we will rotate according to your needs. We thank all of you for your flexibility as we continue to refine processes to best meet your needs.

In other news, we have heard your requests and have finally implemented an evening support group for those of you who work full time during regular business hours!  This group will meet via Zoom on the third Thursday of each month. If you are interested in joining this group, please RSVP via the calendar on this website.

Reflections

Caring for someone with a dementia illness is tough, at best. Over time you are confronted with changing behaviors and abilities to process information. You’re learning how to manage things that the person you’re caring for used to manage for themselves. You find yourself feeling alone and isolated because your time is now largely dedicated to caring for someone who needs constant attention, and often friends fall away for various reasons.

Now, imagine doing this for someone who has not been kind to you throughout the history of your relationship.

Most of us think about caregiving as something we do out of love for another person. We are caring for a parent who cared for us, or for a spouse who shared a life and supported us for many years, or perhaps for a dear friend, with whom we shared life’s ups and downs. But that is not always the case. Sometimes people find themselves as the only person available to care for someone who was not kind, or was even abusive.

For those of you in that situation, there can still be rewards found in your day-to-day role as a caregiver. If nothing else, perhaps you can feel some satisfaction in knowing you are doing a kindness or fulfilling a sense of duty.

For those of you observing someone in that role, it may be easy to judge when you hear someone express negative feelings about the person for whom they are caring, or when decisions are made that conflict with your own values. It may be helpful to stop and reflect; consider that every person’s journey in life is unique, and there is plenty we don’t know.

For all of you, Memory Partners is honored to be at your side through your journey. Whether you come to this out of love or obligation, we’re here to help.