Remembering Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is the message this week. We discuss caregiving through the lens of Dr. King. Dr. King stated, “Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” Caregiving is often a faith walk with many uncertainties. We share his thoughts. We salute him because he cared. He cared for his family. He cared for the community. He cared for humanity. His message was simple yet profound, solid yet passionate, and personal yet focused on fostering unity. His mindset reflects philosophies directly related to the many layers of caregiving.
Care is Love, Service, Action
Caregiving is about love and service through action. As caregivers, we advocate against elder abuse. We advocate for justice when our loved ones are victimized in the healthcare system. We practice empathy because it’s necessary (we remember that we, too, may age and need care). We foster dialogue with our loved ones to ensure they are part of their care. We seek community stakeholders and their resources to support the caregiving experience. We hope families will heed the call to allow loved ones to age in place. We know that familiar environments make for a healthier caregiving experience. The continued dream for a better tomorrow is that all who need care will receive the care required, and when the journey ends, looking to the mountain top, the feelings of peace will triumph.
Caregiving in Memory of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
In memory of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., here are ways you can salute him and support your caregiving journey.
· Empathy Matters: Seek to understand your loved ones’ perspectives. Giving up personal independence is hard.
· Speak Up for Your Loved One: Stand against healthcare inequality and care. Don’t be complicit. Silence is not an option.
· Be Informed: Educate yourself on community resources(i.e., AARP, Meals on Wheels).
· Take part in Eldercare Community Events: When possible, take your loved ones to events with other seniors.
· Donate: Some elders are facing financial difficulties. Donating gently used clothes to clothes shelters that support seniors.
As Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate, know that the word “care” can take on many pathways…people, places, and passions. We care about our loved ones. We care about community. We care about our passions, you know, the ones that fuel our WHY! Dr. Martin Luther King cared enough to sacrifice the things we as caregivers must continue to fight for, speak up for, and stand for! May I leave you with this quote: Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?” — Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Be Safe! Be Well!
Dr. Cynthia J. Hickman is a retired registered nurse and case manager who serves as the CEO of Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate. She’s excited to share her latest book, The Essential Caregiver Training Course for Corporations and Community. Her previous work, From the Lens of a Daughter, Nurse, and Caregiver: A Journey of Duty and Honor, and The Black Book of Important Information for Caregivers, reflects her experiences and insights from her heartfelt caregiving journey.