Posts tagged 'Nurse'

Incontinence is a common condition affecting approximately 13 million Americans (possibly more because many of those living with it may feel shame, embarrassment or anxiety, and do not feel comfortable discussing the topic). It is estimated that the 70% of people with incontinence don’t seek help for their problem. Needing help and being vulnerable is something that is hard to accept for many people, especially those who have played the role of caregiver throughout their lifetime, making it even more difficult to accept care for themselves.

I watched my mom care for Grandma in the final months of her life. We had a “baby monitor” set up by Grandma’s bed, and the other one stayed with mom at all times. It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that every five minutes I heard my Grandma’s voice through the monitor. “Elizabeth? Elizabeth?” Then, with more urgency. “Elizabeth! Elizabeth!”

Providing loving caregiving for a family member is a deeply meaningful experience. You love your aging parent, your injured partner, or your ill family member; and you ask yourself: Is 20 to 40 hours of unpaid work really even enough? Could I be doing more for them?