On My Mind

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On My Mind

I have always believed in sharing my caregiving experiences with others. In 1996 I began On My Mind on Caregiver Network, an honest portrait of what it was like to care for my father Ralph whose last years were spent in long term care suffering from vascular dementia/probable Alzheimer Disease, arthritis and incontinence. My father died on Easter Monday, April 24, 2000 but I continue to talk about my feelings and experiences as I reflect on my 14 - year caregiving journey.

Many caregivers have shared their comments about "On My Mind".

How to Care has given me a new opportunity for self-expression. I plan to use On My Mind as a place to discuss other things that I have learned or been thinking about. Issues I believe are critical for the well-being of both ourselves and those for whom we care. Issues like dementia and dignity and end-of-life-care.

While caring for my father I started to experience what it's like to be old in our society. I didn't like what I saw. I met people who talked down to my father, who treated him roughly or with too little respect. I met professionals who had too little time or concern for an old man who needed help. I tried to take him places, which had no wheelchair access, or food he could eat.

I share my thoughts in Aging and Ageism: Can You Have One Without the Other?

Please and send me suggestions about what else you would like to see in On My Mind.