Honoring the Dedication of Caregivers
Caregiving goes beyond tending to daily needs; it’s an act of dedication, compassion, and moments that change us forever. Caregivers, whether team members at Brio Living Services or individuals who care for their loved ones, bring more than just skill; they bring an unwavering commitment to those they serve. Their stories reveal the true depth of what it means to care.
What draws someone into the profession of caregiving? For many, it’s a calling rather than a career choice. Caregiving is a career where one can truly find fulfillment in positively impacting lives. “I’m a caregiver at heart. I love taking care of people,” said Crystal, a Care Partner at Meadowlark Retirement Village in Sparta. “I’ve done all types of work. Factory, food services, you name it. The only thing that ever made me happy was taking care of others.”
Others find their way into caregiving through personal experiences. Kelli, another Care Partner at Meadowlark, recalled how her grandmother’s journey with dementia and Alzheimer’s inspired her: “It made me want to assist others to ensure they had quality of life and the best possible care.” Many individuals in Brio Living Services, as well as in the caregiving industry, have had similar experiences where caring for a family member has unlocked a newfound passion for supporting others.
Paige Hendrickson, Executive Director of Avenues, a program that helps individuals age at home, and Dave Hendrickson, Sales Counselor at Porter Hills Village in Grand Rapids, shared their experience caring for Dave’s father, Paul. After a family discussion regarding concerns of Paul living alone, he agreed to move in with his son and daughter-in-law. What they discovered during this time wasn’t just about what they could give Paul, but the inspiration and wisdom he shared with them. “He was a good role model for us with a gift of making others feel they are the most important in the room,” they both shared. “He modeled how to age gracefully. He taught us that, even in hard circumstances, we can be patient, respectful, resilient, and joyful.”
Paige and Dave added, “We learned that life happens in stages: schooling, marriage, raising children, career, retirement, illness, wellness, and aging. We don’t know what each stage involves, but being willing to have frank discussions with your family can lead to creative problem-solving. There is no greater privilege than to walk through the aging journey with someone.”
Recipients of this care, whether residents, participants, or family members can feel the depth of their caregiver’s compassion. Patricia Smith, a Huron Valley PACE (Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly) participant, shared what the care she receives means to her: “It means so much to me because I am unable to do it for myself. PACE is a place where all my needs are being met.”
When asked about what people might not recognize about caregiving, a few were able to share their thoughts. “Something that people don’t recognize,” says Alexis Smith, Direct Care Supervisor at Chelsea Retirement Community, “is the amount of dedication, hard work, and patience it takes.” Lisa, a family member of one of our team members at The Thome Rivertown Neighborhood in Detroit, is an independent caregiver who has been caring for her best friend’s mother. She shared, “We are always in ‘Caregiver’ mode, be it with family, your best friend, or in public. One never stops observing or anticipating a medical situation.” This experience, she said, has also helped her find a new voice in becoming a strong patient advocate. Although this journey is extremely rewarding, it also leaves the question, what resources are available to you if you decide to become a caregiver?
Recently, Huron Valley PACE in Ypsilanti held a Caregiver Appreciation event, inviting participants’ caregivers, family members, and other caregivers in the community to learn about resources that are available for caregivers. Some of these resources are thanks, in part, to an Exhale—Family Caregiver Initiative grant to the UMRC-Porter Hills Foundation and Huron Valley PACE, from a collaboration of funders. These partners include the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation, Michigan Health Endowment Fund, Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Foundation. This three-year grant supports family caregivers through respite, support groups, and educational opportunities. Three more Caregiver Appreciation events will take place this calendar year.
Another helpful resource offered at Chelsea Retirement Community are free classes to the community to learn more about dementia and Alzheimer’s. These classes teach an understanding of the brain changes that occur as well as provide tips on how to be able to support your loved one in the way they need, utilizing the Positive Approach to Care™. These classes are available to anyone interested in learning more about dementia and are open to team members, healthcare professionals, family members, and the general public.
These resources make all the difference, especially to those who may not be professionally trained in caregiving or if it is their first time doing so. Nina, a caregiver who attended Huron Valley PACE’s Caregiver Appreciation event, told us about the resources that have been helpful to her. “I just got into a support group where we do a Zoom call, and it just feels good to know that I'm not in this alone.” She told us that this support group has been a “game changer,” being able to connect with others and share what works.
Not only is she the caregiver for her mother, but also her brother. “It's still been a challenge, but I have to remind myself that I can't take care of somebody if I don't take care of myself.” She was able to get her brother signed up as a PACE participant and, although he was hesitant at first, she says now that it is all he talks about! He eagerly awaits his visits to the day center where he can socialize and have fun. Because of these resources, Nina is able to have more time to take care of herself and be there for her mother and brother!
Whether you are a caregiver as a profession, for a family member, or loved one, we at Brio Living Services want you to know that the work you do is extremely impactful, there are resources available, and you are not alone!