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9 replies

JanaSvoboda
Contributor ⭐⭐
October 24, 2026

For me, the most unexpected part has been how much caregiving changes the relationship, in both directions. I expected the practical work, but I did not expect how many small, ordinary moments would matter so much: a shared laugh during a routine task, a story I had never heard before, or simply sitting together without needing to fix anything. At the same time, I did not expect how easy it is to put my own health and rest last until I was already worn down. That lesson has stayed with me. Now I try to accept help earlier, keep my own appointments, and treat a short break as part of caregiving rather than a reward for finishing everything. The work is still hard, and frustration is real, but those quiet moments and the support of other caregivers here have changed how I see the role.

TonyG300
Contributor ⭐
October 20, 2026

In my case becoming best friends with my parents.

    NoreenJ867178
    Contributor ⭐
    October 10, 2026

    Having to move away from loved one because of an injury whereby caregiver has to be taken care of herself.

      agoyer
      agoyerAuthor
      Conversationalist ⭐⭐⭐
      October 10, 2026

      ​@NoreenJ867178 It seems like we just keep going going going as caregivers, and then suddenly we have health problems too - injuries, illnesses - how did you deal with it? Did another family members step in for you when you had to move away? 

        NoreenJ867178
        Contributor ⭐
        October 10, 2026

        Yes…….Other family Members are stepping in to take care of Our Dad

          JudyB394614
          Contributor ⭐
          October 9, 2026

          Rewarding

            agoyer
            agoyerAuthor
            Conversationalist ⭐⭐⭐
            October 9, 2026

            It can definitely be unexpectedly rewarding. Feeling needed and knowing we are making a difference for someone we love and care about feels really good! I don’t know if I’ll ever do anything quite as rewarding and fulfilling as caring for my parents was - despite how hard it was at times and the  long term effects on me. They appreciated me, and I knew I made their life better and that’s worth a lot! 

              KathleenZ91813
              Contributor ⭐
              October 8, 2026

              My anger and frustration.

                agoyer
                agoyerAuthor
                Conversationalist ⭐⭐⭐
                October 8, 2026

                I know what you mean I didn’t expect that either! But I think we all feel it at one point or another when caregiving. Try not to feel badly about it. You’re doing your best!

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