The Red Flags of C
When to Take a Step Back
Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia is draining, but it’s also selfless and rewarding. Many caregivers dedicate their time, energy, and heart to caring for a loved one, often at the expense of their own needs. Over time, this can lead to caregiver stress — a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion that, if left unchecked, can impact both you and the person you’re caring for. Recognizing the signs of caregiver stress is the first step toward protecting your well-being. Here are six red flags to watch for. Feeling Overwhelmed or Constantly Anxious Do you feel like your to-do list is never-ending? Are you constantly worried about your loved one’s care or your ability to manage everything? Constant feelings of anxiety or being “on edge” may mean you’re carrying too much. Changes in Sleep Patterns If you find it tough to fall asleep, stay asleep, or feel constantly fatigued, disruptions in your sleep routine are a sign of stress. Poor sleep can make caregiving tasks feel even more daunting. Noticeable Physical Symptoms Stress affects more than just your mind; it can also affect your body. Frequent headaches, stomach issues, or a weakened immune system might mean your body is waving a red flag for help.
Cats are known for many things: their independence, impeccable balancing skills, and endless fascination with shoelaces. However, who would have guessed that our beloved feline friends have an innate GPS built into their brains? This furry tale of two kitties all started when a California couple, Benny and Susanne Anguiano, decided to take their two cats, Rayne Beau and Starr Jasmyn, on their first trip to Yellowstone National Park. The couple says this wasn’t the cats’ first rodeo. In fact, they loved looking out the big windows of the RV at the different wildlife. However, their epic park adventure turned into a nightmare on this particular trip. Shortly after arriving at Yellowstone, something startled Rayne Beau, and he ran into the forest. The couple searched for him for four days, leaving out some of his favorite treats and toys to lure him back to them. Unfortunately, Benny and Susanne’s efforts were short-lived, and they had to return home to Salinas, California. Susanne never lost hope and recalls a moment during their trek home when she saw a double rainbow in the sky. “That’s a sign for our Rayne Beau that he’s going to be okay,” she said. The Anguianos finally got the call they had been waiting for about two months after their Yellowstone trip. Their microchip enrollment company called and said Rayne Beau had been found and turned in to the Placer SPCA in Roseville, California (over 800 miles from Yellowstone and 200 miles from their home)! The next day, Benny and Susanne drove to Roseville to pick up Rayne Beau. Upon arrival, they discovered he had lost 6 pounds, had minor paw injuries, and was malnourished. While seeing their beloved fur baby in such a condition wasn’t easy, the Anguianos made it a point to fit their cats with AirTags and Rayne Beau with a GPS tracker. Rayne Beau’s ability to find his way back home remains a mystery. However, it proves that love (and feline internal GPS) can overcome any obstacle, no matter the distance. A Determined Feline Finds His Way Home No Matter the Distance LOST BUT NOT FORGOTTEN
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