Toward Better Days

Inspiration and Information for the Incapacitated and Informal Caregiver

“There are only four kinds of people in the world; those who have been caregivers, those who currently are caregivers, those who will be caregivers, those who will need caregivers.”

Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter

It is a life changing occurrence for everyone when someone close to you becomes ill or incapacitated. There is a maze of emotions and a lack of understanding of what is happening, what to expect, and what needs to be done.

Being a caregiver has a tremendous impact on all phases of your life and those close to you. There is less time for family and friends, financial difficulties arise, and there is less time for you. Daily routines must be adjusted.

Eighty (80% percent of the care needed by older adults is provided by a family member or friend; 80% of caregivers provide care seven days a week for an average of four hours a day; 64% of caregivers are employed; the average age of caregivers is 46; one third of caregivers are the sole caregiver for their loved one; caregivers experiencing stress and strain have a 63% higher risk of death.

While the author was a caregiver of loved ones she came to realize the need for guidance. In TOWARD BETTER DAYS she shares information and ideas learned from her experiences. The details are surrounded by photos, poems and whimsy to bring a smile, a happy memory, or a moment of escape from the reality of life.

This book is also a wonderful resource for ANYONE as a central place to keep important details which may be needed in case of emergency or crisis.

“What a delight to see how you have turned your own experiences into a book that can benefit other caregivers. I really like the idea of the forms for sharing and compiling information. Also, since you have been a caregiver, the book has an authentic voice which I believe people will trust.”

Ms. Ruth Price, Coordinator
Park Ridge Hospital’s Behavioral Health Caregiver Wellness Program
Henderson County, North Carolina

Toward Better Days

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Introduction 

Guest/Gift Register 

For the Caregiver

          An overview of being a caregiver 

Inspiration and Whimsy to lift the spirits 

Resources

          Where to find information and assistance 

Important Personal Information

          A central place for details on personal, legal 

and financial information 

Family and Personal Medical History 

Medication Schedule Checklist

          Keeping up with medications 

Daily Medical Diary

          Keeping details of daily progress 

Emergency Contacts         

Doctors, hospital 

Personal Contacts         

Family and friends 

Calendar 

The Butterfly

          Inspiration for all who are struggling 

Testimonials/reviews