When a loved one is terminally ill, it can feel overwhelming to be responsible for keeping the rest of their family and friends updated on their situation. Texting and calling each person individually every time there’s a change in the patient’s condition takes a lot of time and energy — both of which you might already be lacking due to the toll that grief and caregiver burnout can take on a person.
There are few things in life that are as difficult as saying goodbye to a dying loved one. When faced with this heartbreaking moment, keep your focus on expressing love and reassurance. That focus and the tips below will help give both you and your loved one what you need to find peace.
When most people picture a heart attack, they imagine what they’ve seen in movies or on TV. A man clutches his chest or his arm before falling to the ground. But what happens when it’s a woman experiencing a heart attack?
One of the ways that individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia show anxiety or agitation is in their hands. They will begin to fidget, restlessly pulling at clothes or blankets, wringing their hands, or rubbing their hands together. Fidget blankets are one way to help restore calm.
Many of us know firsthand the value of having an advance care directive to ensure our healthcare wishes at the end of life are met. But as the saying goes, “life happens.” We age, our health changes, and sometimes, the healthcare decisions we once found important change as well. The start of a new year is the perfect time to review and refresh an advance care directive, or begin crafting a new one.
Between medical bills, funeral costs, needing to take time off of work, and more, the expenses for families with a sick loved one can add up. These families need both emotional and financial support in these difficult times. And while it can sometimes be hard to ask for it, there are plenty of reasons to seek support – or to help someone you know do so.
