Living Our Legacies Family Caregivers’ Planning, Prevention and Engagement Framework
Message From Dr. Marilyn French Hubbard
Former First Lady Roslyn Carter once said, "There are only four kinds of people: those who have been caregivers, those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregiving." Family caregiving is an honor and sacred experience. Despite the inevitability of aging, often we as African Americans are not adequately prepared to address either of these caregiving roles. To raise awareness, Living Our Legacies will transform what ofte n can be a daunting family caregivers’ journey to an intentionally planned - for season of life with an experience of peace of mind, joy, contentment, fulfillment, and revitalization.
THE FAMILY CAREGIVERS’ JOURNEY
The family caregivers’ journey follows no one path. The needs of a loved one can vary , and the attention required can be quite overwhelming. Despite the detours of health and wellness concerns family caregivers may personally experience along the way, they remain committed to the family caregiving journey. Although such loving care provides the warmth and support an older family member may need, it can cause great physical and mental strain for the family caregiver.
A Glimpse of a Family Caregivers’ Path
In the early morning darkness, Charlene kneeled to say her morning prayers. This was a daily routine she felt she needed now more than ever. Her aging mom was beginning to require so much of her attention. Even though Charlene felt overwhelmed, distressed, and at times depressed, she knew she needed to push through. After all, she knew caring for her ninety-year-old mother was just what a loving daughter was supposed to do. As she slowly stood up, she immediately sat down to catch her breath. For the last month she had been experiencing tightness in her chest and frequent headaches. Although Charlene knew she needed to see the doctor, she felt it would just have to wait. Her mom needed her.
She gathered herself and hurried to catch the 5:45 a.m. bus to her mother’s house. As Char lene entered the apartment, a wave of fear took over as the smell hit her. She flicked on the light switch and there standing in the dark was Mom shivering in her soiled nightgown. Her thin, veined hands gripped the edge of the kitchen counter like a lifeline. “Dear God, not again,” Charlene thought. Her temple began to throb and once again her chest tightened. “Mama?” Charlene said softly. “Mama, it’s me, Charlene. Are you ok?” Her mom turned toward her. Fear and confusion clouded her eyes. “Charlene, is that you?” she softly crooned. Charlene approached, avoiding the accident on the floor, speaking in quiet tones. With a gentle rub, she reassured her, “It’s ok, Mama. I’m here.”
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