It is well-known that caregiving takes an emotional toll, and it can be physically demanding as well. Sometimes the shift to become a caregiver is carefully planned for as the health of a spouse or parent declines. In other situations the shift is sudden, such as when a person falls or experiences an unexpected health…
Many caregivers are so busy taking care of the needs of their loved ones or clients they neglect taking care of themselves. And self-care goes beyond physical health as well. Depression in caregivers is common, and if individuals fail to nurture themselves they may not be able to care for others. If you’re a caregiver,…
Many people mistake personal consulting with therapy. They believe that if they were to reach out to a consultant, they would be reaching out to a therapist, psychiatrist, or some other mental health professional who will make them discuss things they do not want to face. This is not true. Van Blarcom Consulting is something…
When a spouse or loved one is diagnosed with dementia, both you and the individual diagnosed may experience frustration and sadness. Even if you had suspected the person was experiencing cognitive decline, you may be unsure how you will be able to care for them through memory loss and personality changes. Discussing early dementia caregiver…
The aging process is not always easy. Illnesses abound and if your aging parent is not well, they may not be able to participate in all of the activities they once enjoyed. They may become angry and take their frustrations out on the individuals close to them, which could include you, their child. But learning…
Caring for an older loved one can be difficult. You may not always know what to do, how to do it, or where to turn. If you’re feeling as though you’re just at your wit’s end, know there are ways to feel better. Talking through problems with a personal counselor and developing a new perspective…
When people get married, they are typically not thinking about the possibility of a health crisis disrupting their relationship. But according to the National Alliance for Caregiving, one in 10 caregivers are individuals assisting their spouses. Because many of these people were not trained as healthcare professionals, they may not know what indicators of dementia…
Even if you’ve suspected your parent may have had Alzheimer’s disease for some time, hearing the official diagnosis can be devastating. No one wants their parents to deal with an age-related disease, but millions of Americans over the age of 65 years old are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Along with the individual’s suffering, caregivers and family members…
Caregiver support groups provide caregivers with an opportunity to openly discuss their personal issues and feel less lonely. Many caregivers find connecting with others who are going through a similar experience supplies a path to healing. Support groups are an opportunity to make friends, learn about health care options, and reduce stress. Support groups are…
When long-term care is needed, it can be stressful for a family. The decision itself carries a lot of emotion, and the financial figure connected to the care can be far more than a family can afford. In some instances, Medicaid is an option. Others choose to use a combination of resources, including savings and…
To provide support, education, and motivation to individuals having difficulty with life’s challenges, and to empower them to turn their life around so they can improve it with positive changes that will greatly influence their thoughts, feelings, and actions for the rest of their life.
Kendall E. Van Blarcom, Psy.M., (Retired)
Join Our Newsletter Today and get our FREE eBook, 15 Activities to Improve Your Life
Please note: I do not offer the services of a virtual counselor, therapist or geriatric psychologist. Online personal consulting is not intended to take the place of traditional face-to-face therapy, clinical assessment or treatment.
