BONITA BANDARIES

Greet the day with an uplifting scripture, message, or prayer. Using a perpetual calendar, a daily devotion book, or journal requires only a minute or two.

Proverbs 12:25 NLT  "Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up."

Family and friends can be encouragers by:

• being willing and attentive listeners

• calling or sending messages to say, "thinking about you; can I be of help today?"

For a caregiver, encouraging words and actions bring comfort and support.

Hebrews 3:13 NIV "Encourage one another daily."

Caregivers, give yourself permission to feel your feelings, acknowledging stressful interactions. Pause, take time to breathe deeply. Reflect on positive thoughts or verses to reframe the situation. Put on the coffee pot, or tea kettle, and invite someone to share this time with you. Whether alone, with the person who needs care, or a guest, indulging in this activity will re-energize you.

On a personal note, 3:00 pm each day was coffee time for my mother. Although I rarely drank coffee other than my two morning cups, I came to look forward to the daily ritual during the years of caring for her.  Sometimes others shared this time with us, but it was always a time to pause and rest.

Friends or family ideas:  Set aside time for visits with the caregiver. Perhaps take a gift of food, a prepared dish or makings for a meal. Enjoy visiting but offer to help with household tasks.

Daily routine is easier for you and anyone who might assist you when there is organization.

1 Corinthians 14:40 NIV ". . . Everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way."

Be organized. Make a place for everything according to use. Daily habits or routines give direction for prioritizing the organization. Making a place for supplies according to use saves time and lets you know what items need to be replaced. This can be things needed for personal needs, medicines, meals, and other necessary items.

Being organized makes it easier to respond to a friend or family member who telephones to say, "I'm going grocery shopping. Send me your list." Giving someone a specific thing to do allows them to be supportive in a meaningful way.

"You will lie down and your sleep will be sweet." Proverbs 3:24 NKJV

Caregiving is a journey that can last a few days or a few years depending on the condition of the loved one needing care. Studies have found that sleep is more important than nutrition and exercise but all three affect one's health and wellbeing. Sleep deprivation is one of the major risk factors leading to chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, stroke, and heart disease.

A healthy body needs the shutdown hours of sleep to repair and rejuvenate itself.

• Make use of relaxation techniques, such as listening to music, meditating, or simply sitting for a few minutes with your eyes closed, breathing deeply, and visualizing peaceful scenes.

• During the day take naps when the loved one is napping.

• At night keep a regular bedtime, relaxing before sleeping.

Family and friends, expand the network of support for the caregiver. Ask others to join you in providing relief time either in the day if needed or evening. If aides are needed for more help, give input into finding the right balance of care for both the loved one and the caregiver.

 "Whoever refreshes others will be refreshed."  Proverbs 11:25b NIV

Stay connected with friends from work, clubs, organizations, and other community service groups. Reaching out to others can be a source of motivation and inspiration, giving you confidence that "you can do it." This also keeps people in your circle who can support you in your caregiver journey. You may have to make choices of how you stay connected and how often but keeping balance in your life is an important key to staying healthy.

On a personal note: During my tenure of caring for my mother, I often hired professional respite care on Sundays which freed me to attend church services. Balancing paid help and volunteer assistance can give you, the caregiver, time to participate in activities which enrich your life.

Family and friends can support the caregiver's well-being by encouraging her or him to stay involved with others. Today's technology of text messaging, FB, ecards takes only seconds.  Of course, a short call or visit is always appropriate.

 "Walk in wisdom... making the best use of time." Colossians 4:15 ESV

Jot it down! It is important to keep schedules, appointments, and any special needs related to the care of your loved one.  A journal is a useful tool for staying focused and organized, a strategy which saves time. Journal writing is a way to communicate with yourself, expressing feelings and concerns you may not want to share with others. Writing your feelings is a way of managing caregiver stress.

Use a journal not just to jot down the to-do's of the day but to record special moments, a laugh, feelings, or memories shared with the family member. Reflecting on these times can bring great comfort to you and enjoyment to share with family members on special occasions. One of the stories I enjoy telling is the day Mother was serenaded by 'Elvis' in the elevator at the medical center. (That's a story for another time!)

Friends and families often purchase journals as gifts for caregivers. Journals are available in varying styles and prices in a variety of stores wherever books and writing materials are sold. As a former caregiver, I used notepads, notebooks and journals for personal notes, prayers, scriptures and stories which encouraged me.

 "Come to me, all of you who are tired and have heavy loads, and I will give you rest."         Matthew 11:29 NCV

Caregiving responsibilities increase as the level of care progresses from independent care to full-time family care possibly with professional care. Sometimes caregivers become sicker than the patient because they do not get enough rest, sleep, or exercise  Make a plan to stay energized by taking short power naps during the day, take a walk, or participate in other outdoor activities. You are in charge and can make time to care for yourself by delegating or hiring others to relieve you.

Friends and family members, tell the caregiver you will sit with the loved one at a particular time, for example, Mondays and Wednesdays from 10 am to 1 pm. Keep your word! Scheduling time "rest the mind" of the caregiver who then knows that she or he can count on you. Accountability of others adds to the well-being of a caregiver.

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." Romans 12:12 NIV

Sometimes caregivers must create their joy. It is important not to see yourself as a victim of circumstances, but to make a choice each day to enjoy moments which give you pleasure.

This might be done with the person receiving care by:

• Revisiting special memories in happier times,

• Looking at pictures together, or

• Chatting about funny experiences.

Make some personal time to enjoy something which gives you a feeling of happiness or contentment, like:

• Listening to music,

• Reading,

• Enjoying nature--a walk, gardening, just sitting a while, or

• Working on a craft or a hobby.

Family and friends, gift cards are always good choices for caregivers as is a  gift of time away from responsibilities of care.

"I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds." Psalm 9:1 NIV

Gratitude is a beneficial element of positive outlook and mood, leading to better health. Be grateful for family and friends who support you in your role as caregiver. Some caregivers find gratitude journals useful as a stress management tool.

Family and Friends, share gratitude at family meals. Take time to reflect on gratitude for all veterans. Remember family members who have served and share their stories. Record the memories. Sharing stories is a good way to preserve family history and to appreciate those who have served the nation.  

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."  Philippians 4:13 NKJV

As a caregiver don't neglect your spirituality. Turn to your faith as encouragement and strength. It's easy to lose sight of why you took on the role of caregiver to begin with. Heading the list of reasons is usually "love" held for the parent, spouse, child, other relative or friend.

Though caregiving can be rewarding, the reality is that it can be exhausting maddening, frightening, and frustrating. Yet, in the midst of all this, caregivers often express a deep sense of personal fulfillment and satisfaction in finding they have been able to keep their commitment. A review of caregiver stories validates the premise of faith reducing stress and anxiety.

On a personal note: The scripture listed was my mantra. It gave me strength to take extra steps needed to give assistance, especially in the night  when I was weary and needed sleep.

Helpful experiences are found through reading the Bible, relying on particular verses, prayer and meditation, or listening to spiritual music or messages. Sometimes this can be a joint venture with the relative.  The scriptures bring peace and refresh your spirit which is helpful to both you and the person needing care.

Reading any of the many motivational books available, reading caregiver testimonies, and participating in on-line chat rooms are some places for caregivers to find inspiration and bring balance into their lives.

Friends and family can provide books, tapes, etc. Another suggestion is to relieve caregivers to  attend church services or support groups. Focusing on faith presents a different light on circumstances and may present solutions not considered otherwise.

 "A person finds joy in giving an apt reply---and how good is a timely word."

 Proverbs 15:23 NIV

While it is important for you, the caregiver, to learn to receive gifts of encouragement, help, prayer and love from other people, it is also important to give back. Pray for others. Encourage others as much as possible through conversations in person, telephone, email, or mail. If you made the Thanksgiving card list, you have contacts ready.

On a personal note:

Visitors and health care workers coming to my home learned that Mother and I believed in prayer. Having these people ask my mother for prayer had a positive effect on her emotional state and mine. Keeping in touch with people by telephone and cards was special to her. When her arthritic hands kept her from writing, she dictated words of comfort and encouragement. Receiving responses always improved her morale. It is good when you and your loved one can share activities together.

"It is in giving that we receive" are the words of a prayer  by St. Francis of Assisi, a 13th Century saint, They are often referenced about the rewards of giving.

Gary Barg, author of The Fearless Caregiver, said, "We never know when or where we will get a piece of the caregiving puzzle or give one to another who needs it." Gary, founder and editor of Today's Caregiver Magazine was a guest on The Best of Times Radio Hour May 13, 2017.

As he said, "I could be standing in line at the drugstore or in a waiting room conversing with someone who gives me an answer helpful in my caring for Mother.  In turn, I might give the exact answer another person needs."

Click the link to listen to more "Caregiving Guidelines and Strategies" discussion with host Gary Calligas and me.

http://www.thebestoftimesnews.com/radio.php?radio=804

Gary Barg is a former caregiver who founded the first national magazine for caregivers. He is an author and host of Fearless Caregiver Conferences. Visit Gary's website for excellent information and sharing by caregivers. You will be glad you did!

https://caregiver.com

Friends and family, stay engaged in dialogue with caregivers. Your giving in communication, prayer, and love are vital in their emotional and spiritual health.

"If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer." Matthew 21:22 NIV                              

"For the LORD gives wisdom." Proverbs 2:6a NIV

Believe in yourself, your ability to give compassionate care and make wise decisions while taking care of yourself. This requires positive self-talk. Be an optimist, believe your efforts will be enough. If you have accepted the role of caregiver for a loved one, you did so knowing that you accepted the awesome role of being in charge.

Circumstances can change day to day and sometimes hour to hour. You have to believe that you make the best choices possible. Have faith in your ability to be aware of resources available, knowing your options, and managing the care based on sound medical advice. Then, have confidence in yourself to make decisions.

How do you get that?  Learn all you can about what care is needed; select medical staff and help you trust. Believe in wisdom from God to guide you in making the best choices caring for the relative and yourself, too.  Learn to trust your instincts as you face each day's challenges.

Friends and family, be positive in your conversation with caregivers. Make suggestions without finding fault. Be supportive in prayer and believing the caregiver is doing their best.

". . .The LORD said, write down the vision. . ." Habakkuk 2:2 KJV

Before you became a caregiver, you were a person who had interests and personal goals. Your life did not end because you became a caregiver. The question becomes "How can you give the best care to your loved one and still have a life of your own?"

Finding a solution depends on how you approach caregiving. All of the tips and strategies mentioned in previous posts are parts of the big picture. Getting and keeping the right perspective is the key. Once you accept the role of caregiving:

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• Learn all you can about the illness or disability;

• Include the elements needed for care; and then,

• Incorporate interests, hobbies, and relief time to enjoy personal and family time.

Set daily, short-term and long-range goals. Write your goals (vision).

Record the challenges, successes, and thoughts to maintain a healthy perspective

of giving care and the life that you want.

Writing keeps you focused. Planning short breaks in your day, time out of the house, activities with friends, etc. makes it easier for you to accomplish the vision. Planning and maintaining personal interests counters a tendency to be depressed and dissatisfied.

Friends and family can schedule time to relieve you for personal interests out of the house.  Journals, inspirational books, or items useful in hobbies make good gifts.

"Do not merely look out for your own personal interests but also for the interests of others."

                                                    Philippians 2:4 NASB

Arrange for a family member, friend, or volunteer from church or other group to be a telephone contact so that someone calls daily to be sure everything is all right. This person can help by contacting other family members giving them status updates or letting them know if help is needed. Scheduled check-in calls keep you connected reducing your sense of isolation and contributing to one of well-being.

Friends and family are instrumental in this process. One or two persons should be the link to others providing needed persons with daily updates and communicating needs of the caregiver.                   

"He changes the times and the seasons. . ." Daniel 2:21 NIV

Caring for yourself is not selfish but necessary to endure the tasks of care as changes in aging, health, and/or disability  of your loved one occurs. Holidays tend to increase demands on one's time. All the tips and strategies previously cited are important to make sure that the joy of the holidays is not stolen from you. Some strategies to use for juggling the holidays with your role as caregiver are:

• Realize your limitations--you can't do it all;

• Review your priorities--what is most important to you;

• Request help;

• Realize resources are at your disposal;

• Remember to get proper nutrition, rest, sleep, and exercise.

The holiday season beginning with Thanksgiving becomes busy with planning, shopping, events, and numerous festivities. Our lives are enriched by special memories of these occasions but the stress that comes with them can make caregivers lose the joy of the season.

Enjoy today, savor the special moments like smiles, hugs, pleasant thoughts, something read or heard, a shared memory with your relative or just the smell of coffee brewing. The term savor is often applied to eating, but can be associated with any pleasurable experience. Caregivers, be alert to the small things in your day to enjoy. Savoring time is respite time and relief time is good for your health and well-being.

Friends and family, connect with caregivers to provide moments to savor.  Take them a specialty coffee, or invite them to join you at a specialty coffee shop. Do some of these things during the holiday season, not waiting until Christmas to give as a gift.

If the feast is at your home, accept help from others.

• If none is offered, delegate duties to children and other family members.

• Consider ordering precooked meals or accept dishes from guests.

• If necessary, make new traditions to celebrate the day.

If you are alone with the person you care for, stay in a spirit of thankfulness:

• Take some time reflecting on memories of happier holidays;

• Read from your gratitude journal or your gratitude jar;

• Reflect on loved ones;

• Watch favorite movies, listen to music, etc

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Friends and family, connect with the caregivers in your family or those you know. Learn how they will be spending the holiday. Then help with their holiday tasks, invite them to your home, give gifts of food, gift certificates or simply express, "Happy Thanksgiving, I am grateful for your commitment to ______________"

"I Thank God every time I remember you." Philippians 1:3 NIV

Thanksgiving is about being mindful of blessings through love and friendship of people in our lives. Today, take inventory of the people who need to know that you are grateful for them.

The list might include:

• Someone who hasn't been properly thanked for their kindness.

• People who share responsibilities of care.

• Friends and/or family who keep in touch thinking of you.

• Your favorite people, far away or nearby, who have touched your life.

Beside the names write something about the person that makes you grateful for them. Then, share your thanks in person, in writing, or with a call.  Reflecting and sharing thanks with the people you appreciate and love nurtures you, fostering good mental and emotional self-care.

Friends and family receiving your words of thanks will likely be appreciative and motivated to continue encouraging and supporting you in your position of caregiving for a loved one.

"Give thanks to the LORD for he is good; his love endures forever."

1 Chronicles 16:34 NIV

Gratitude jars are another way of documenting thoughts or actions making you feel a strong sense of gratitude or appreciation. The concept of gratitude jars is popular and jars can be made or purchased. The jars can be any container you have around the house, one that you can  identify as the gratitude jar. Have a notepad or slips of paper and pen near the container. Every time you feel gratitude  for something or someone write it down and put the paper in the jar. At the end of the day might be a good time to reflect on at least one thing that made you happy during the day and write a slip for it.

You may want a jar of your own or one to share with family. Decide whether you want to empty the jar on a special occasion and share with others or take one gratitude out to read when you need to feel thankful.  A positive effect of gratitude jars is improved mental clarity and self-esteem. You become more conscious of your blessings.

Friends and family may want to contribute to the jar. Connecting with each other, sharing gratitude fosters relationships and encourages compassion which is important for caregivers. Gratitude jars either made or purchased can make good gifts.     

"And let us not grow weary in doing good. . ." Galatians 6:9 NIV

Whenever possible use community services (such as adult day care centers) to fulfill respite responsibilities. Never feel guilty about using other sources to make caregiving easier for yourself and your family.

Family and friends, share information about resources available. Make contacts for the caregiver if necessary. Encourage them to take advantage of health care professionals who can allow them to have respite, giving them a break.

"Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might. . . " Ecclesiastes 9:10 NIV

What hobby or activity do you have that makes you happy? Pursue it with a passion. Do not think of it as a waste of time or avoiding responsibilities. Enjoying a hobby is an ideal way to relax and manage stress. Hobbies that get you out of the care-giving setting and with others is enhancing to your health and well-being.

Schedule some time for activities that interest you. Interests like reading, writing, sewing, or listening to music can be pursued at home if you create a space for yourself. De-clutter an area that works for you. Even a few minutes spending time in your space adds to your well-being. Ask family or friends to free you for the time needed. If this can't be arranged, consider hiring someone for that time.

Family and Friends, offer to relieve the caregiver a few hours a week while they enjoy a hobby. Perhaps entertain children or other family members while the caregiver spends a few minutes with their interests.  

Do something that makes you happy; it can be one little thing or several small things throughout the day.

"A happy heart makes the face cheerful. . ." Proverbs 15:13 NIV

Caregivers tend to forego the small things that give them pleasure, such as lingering over a cup of coffee, reading a magazine, spending a few minutes more on makeup or styling their hair. It is easy to get caught up in the daily routine of care and neglect yourself, thus leading to times of feeling low or stressed.

To stay positive, treat yourself to one or more of the small things that make you happy. Find things to do in short time spans and post a note on the refrigerator as a reminder. Take advantage of all opportunities. This can be as short as ten minutes but is an important key to making you more relaxed, happy, and rested.

Family and friends, take a small gift to the caregiver. This can be little things like  a flower from the garden or a fresh baked cookie. The message of "Thinking About You" does wonders to brighten a caregiver's day.

There is "A time to laugh. . ." Ecclesiastes 3:4 ESV

Laughter is thought to be one of God's amazing gifts. It helps you cope with sadness and everyday life. For caregivers, the ability to find humor in the daily challenges of caring for loved ones revives them and carries them through.

On a personal note:

A friend sharing about laughter said, "Mother loved people,  talking and laughing, so I didn't want to be gloomy as the Alzheimer's progressed. During the last ten years of her life, I continued to talk with her, laughing about something amusing, even when she couldn't respond. I directed her sitters to do the same."

Another caregiver friend has written about discovering laughter. Her husband had a stroke leaving him paralyzed on one side and limiting his speech. She relates the difficulty and stress of manipulating the wheel chair in and out of the car. On one occasion taking him to the doctor during the transfer from car to chair, he lost his balance and the therapy belt dropped causing him to fall. He just responded with "oops" and began laughing. Sitting there, they discovered that the world had not stopped and they could still laugh. Today, years after this occasion, she attests that there is life after stroke, different but more precious.

Other caregiver accounts say that the ability to find humor in difficult situations is one of the greatest survival mechanisms. Research reports many positive health aspects of laughter. Medically, laughter therapy is sometimes prescribed by physicians.

Families and friends wishing to encourage caregivers should be aware that sometimes they need to just laugh. Help them find ways to do that.

"It is not good to eat too much honey. . ." Proverbs 25:27 NIV

Nutrition is as important for you as it is for your loved one. Everything you do to improve your health and wellbeing affects the loved one and the whole family. Getting proper nutrition helps you maintain strength, energy, stamina, and a positive attitude.

Try to eat your evening meal at the same time as the loved one even if their food must be prepared differently. If you have children, spouse, or other relatives in the home, try to involve them in regular meals together. Make meal time a time of connecting with each other as you prepare healthy meals and enjoy them together. Maintaining as much "normalcy" as possible encourages their involvement in caregiving.

What's this item about? What makes it interesting? Write a catchy description to grab your audience's attention...

"Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding." Proverbs 3:13 NIV

Talking about questions, fears, or anxieties with others who are experiencing what you do is reassuring that you are not alone. In most support groups you will get information and learn from sharing with people who might be dealing with the same illness of your loved one. In turn, you may help another with your answer to one of their problems.

There are benefits to joining a support group in your area. You make new friends and the meetings get you out of the house reducing feelings of isolation. The people will be familiar with local resources which you might need.

How do you find these groups?

Check the yellow pages, newspaper listings, ask the doctor or hospital, or call a local organization that deals with the health problem you are interested in. Do a web search of an organization dedicated to the illness. Your community may have prepared directories listing all the agencies, organizations, services, and local support groups. My area of Northwest Louisiana has Silver Pages, produced by The Best of Times Magazine and distributed free of charge each spring. This is a valuable resource!

If you can't leave home, there are numerous internet sites. Just spend some time searching until you find ones that you are comfortable with. You can log on at a time convenient to you. Reading stories of caregivers and connecting with them has a positive, reassuring effect.

Friends and family members, encourage the caregiver to attend a support group. Volunteer to sit with the loved one freeing them from that responsibility. If necessary, offer to pay for professional help during that time.  This is a great gift for a caregiver, one which will be appreciated.

What's this item about? What makes it interesting? Write a catchy description to grab your audience's attention...

 "David encouraged himself . . ." 1 Samuel 30:6b KJV

It is easy to become discouraged with your circumstances as the holiday season approaches. If your responsibilities of care keep you from experiencing the festivities as customary, adapt the holiday plans and to do lists.

For caregivers who entertain on occasions:

• Reconsider the meal planning and preparation by making it a group effort.

• Let others be your hands and feet in shopping and sharing responsibilities.

• Reverse the meal or event times to earlier in the day when older adults are usually  more alert.

• Think simply, decide which traditions to keep, which ones to adapt.

• Keep a list of your blessings handy to re-focus on what really matters.

Family and friends, become willing volunteers to "be the hands and feet" of the caregiver, sharing in shopping, meal preparation, and event festivities. Discuss arrangements in advance with the caregiver to decrease their anxiety about upcoming events.

"Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

                               1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV

Begin by paying attention to all we take for granted, like sleep, food, conveniences of life, etc. Take some time each day to reflect on your life and blessings. Jot down one or more things you are grateful for. Staying positive and thankful as a caregiver isn't always easy but practicing it has its rewards.

These feelings will override those of sadness, impatience, irritations and other negative emotions, lowering your stress level and making you happier. Being grateful helps you become more optimistic, focusing on what you have in situations, things, and people that make life better.

Friends and family, help the caregiver experience gratitude by staying cheerful and positive when with them.

"Love. . . always hopes, always perseveres." 1 Corinthians 13:7b NIV

"How do you do it?" is a question caregivers are frequently asked. What motivates you to endure in the tough times, when life is busy?

I think most caregivers will tell you that love and respect for the family member needing care gives them strength to face the challenges which can be new each day. Persevering for months and sometimes years takes an abundance of patience that I believe only God can provide.

Reading and speaking scriptures of reassurance motivate you to persevere. Most caregivers find security and rest in the wisdom of the scriptures. Research shows that just a few minutes a day in meditation, prayer, or quiet time reduces stress. This is important for caregivers to stay healthy and well balanced.

Family and friends, be positive in your conversations with caregivers:

• always give them time to express feelings,

• encourage them to find quiet time for themselves,

• reassure them that you have time to relieve them, and

• express appreciation for their loving care.

"For you have need of endurance. . ." Hebrews 10:36 ESV

Being resilient in the face of challenges like emergencies and hospital stays requires patience and energy. Know your boundaries. Recognize the importance of your health, your family, and maybe work. View what the situation needs, be flexible in meeting those needs, and ask for support during the process of change. Give yourself space to care for your inner self through:

• Prayer

• Meditation

• Reading

• Walking

• Other activities that relax you, signaling your brain that it can relax too.

Friends and family, be prepared to give support or aid when asked. Be alert to ways you can help the caregiver without being asked. Be positive and encouraging in your speech.

"Do everything without complaining." Philippians 2:14 NLT

Tired, anxious caregivers may have to remind themselves of this verse. I know I did! When your sleep is interrupted and a new day begins with no one  to help, it is easy to begin complaining. This is the time to take a few moments talking to God thanking Him for being there and about anything that is on your heart. Write down your thoughts, anxieties, praise, or a meaningful verse. This can be done in a simple notebook or special journals. Research shows that this practice can make you feel better about your life. Journaling counteracts many of the negative effects of stress, making this a good tool for caregivers to use in staying healthy.

On a personal note: Mother had COPD and breathing issues were frightening. One of her home health nurses had an encouraging word for her.  "Breathe out the crud, breathe in Jesus." This was a soothing, comforting exercise for her when her breathing was labored. Focusing on Jesus calmed Mother and me as a caregiver. I was always thankful when this nurse seemed to arrive for a visit at the time he was most needed.

Most caregivers will tell you they find comfort knowing that friends and family are praying for them. Let them know that they are on your heart.

"The LORD gives his people strength. The LORD blesses them with peace."

Psalm 29:11 NIV

Peace must rule in your life as a caregiver. Important decisions require calm, clear thinking. You also need peace believing you are doing your best to care for the relative, other family members who may live with you, and you. Be consistent in taking time for you each day to rest, meditate, pray or engage in a pleasant activity to maintain that peace.  Value the gift of peace. You will be rewarded in health benefits.

Finding peace in caring for loved ones may not be easy but is important. Confusing situations can arise with other family members or with the relative needing care. Don't permit yourself to be troubled because there is no peace in confusion. Reading or reciting verses about peace will give you an anchor.

Family and friends, recognize the caregiver with praise during times when walking in peace is difficult. Celebrate all they do caring for others in a spirit of goodness and peace.