CAREGIVER STRATEGIES & SOLUTIONS

Quarterly Presentation & Discussion

Sharing the Journey: A look at anticipatory grief

Dale M. Tushman, LCSW, Dialysis of the Golden Isles

Tuesday, Sept.30, 2008

6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

St. William Catholic Church, St. Simons Island

When someone we love is diagnosed with terminal illness, we begin to live in expectation of loss. A terminal diagnosis takes away control and changes our ability to plan for the future. Caregivers face emotional stress that friends and family often do not understand. Alzheimer's caregivers experience compounded stress from being in the care-giving role for years as they experience continual losses. This presentation will give special attention to caregivers for Alzheimer's patients; however, it will have relevance for all caregivers. We invite everyone who is interested to attend. A light supper will be provided. Please call to reserve a seat, 264-0777.

 From the Director’s Desk

Be an Angel for Alzheimer’s—our motto. You might assume that means “give money.”  As a non-profit organization, yes, we are at the mercy of the generosity of our donors. There are also many other ways to Be an Angel for Alzheimer’s.   A few suggestions:

*Call a caregiver with a specific offer:

May I bring lunch for you today? May I sit with John/Mary while you go out for a while? Are there any errands I can do for you today? May I come for a visit today? I think you might enjoy this movie; may I bring it to you?                                                                                                                                          

*Before you ask about the cared for, ask the caregiver, “How are you?”

*Continue to visit friends with dementia as long as it is practical.  Your familiar face and the sound of your voice can register at some level, even when they can no longer communicate verbally.

*Continue to call and visit. Caregivers become isolated from their support systems. Be there!

     A final thought:  I encourage you to support the 2009 United Way campaign. During economic downturns, non-profit organizations feel the pinch almost immediately. The United Way of Coastal Georgia helps partner agencies stay afloat during times of economic uncertainty. Some agencies depend on United Way for their survival. “Reach out a hand to one and influence the condition of all. Give. Advocate. Volunteer. LIVE UNITED.” 

Janice Vickers, Executive Director