Family caregivers fill a critical role as our parents age. We go from being the ones who need to be cared for to the ones who care for others. If we are lucky, there are many decades between these two stages of life. Still, even when the transition period is abbreviated, we find ways to get things done we never dreamed possible!
When the person you care for is your parent, you have a different responsibility. This is the person who gave you love and nurture and helped you become the caring person you are today. Not only do you have to balance your own life responsibilities, but you also have to consider others’ needs and desires. Your siblings may not be able to share in the care but still want to be involved in your aging parent’s life. Only superior time management and outstanding organizational skills will keep you sane while you continue to find ways to bring light, love, and laughter to your aging loved ones.
Sunday is Father’s Day, a time set aside to honor and appreciate our living fathers and to remember those who are no longer with us. You are blessed if your relationship with your father is rich and rewarding. If you are his caregiver, you are doubly blessed! Cherish the time you can spend together. There are many ways you can show love and appreciation during this particular season. Share memories of things he taught you when you were young. Reminisce about trips you took together or favorite TV shows you enjoyed years back. Make a list of the aspects of his character that you most admire and share them with him. And don’t forget to thank your Heavenly Father for letting you care for your earthly father.
Relationships are essential, especially if you are a family caregiver. After all, you are related to the person or people you care for, right? It’s what makes a family! Keep these bonds healthy by inviting other family members to share their best memories. Maybe set up a story-swapping event. COVID-19 is still impacting all of our communities, making it risky to enjoy large family gatherings. Zoom offers an excellent platform for your dad to visit with everyone, and for all of them to catch up with him! Take turns sharing funny memories, and everyone will come away laughing and looking forward to the next time.
Chris and I hope we have given you a few new ideas for how to celebrate Father’s Day safely. We hope you will join us this week here at Heart of the Caregiver and share your heart about honoring your father.
Heart of the Caregiver 