While we often hear the terms “it takes a village” in terms of raising a child, the support of our friends, family and community are just as vital to caring for someone living with dementia. Let’s face it, being the sole caregiver can be lonely, exhausting and disconnected. (Note: It can also bring great joy, intimacy and connection).
Those of us who serve in senior living communities have a profound understanding of just how many people it takes to care for a person living with dementia well. As professionals we bring our unique skill sets, approaches, backgrounds and creativity that allow us to serve as connectors and solution finders right alongside family caregivers.
When you join a senior living community your role as a caregiver may shift and change, but you will always serve this role. It is possible that your role reverts to being a child and spouse a loving partner while other members of your care team take on their essential roles. Perhaps joining a care community is merely expanding your army of caregivers, a way of growing your family and doing this together as a village.
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