What does it mean to be a caregiver? Nearly one in five Americans provide unpaid care for someone 50 and older. Caring for a friend or loved one can be one of the greatest gifts one can give to another person; it can also be one of the greatest challenges. Every caregiving/care receiving relationship is unique. Days are often filled with a mixture of joy and sorrow, ups and downs, good days and simply bad days. Caregivers, as well as care receivers, know well the stresses and successes, anxious and more serene moments that can occur on almost a daily basis.
We will explore the joys and challenges of caregiving. What are the issues, challenges and stress points? What are emotional and spiritual issues? What are some strategies for coping in being a caregiver? The discussion will be led by Rev. Robert J. Machovec, a United Methodist minister, Pastoral Psychotherapist, and trainer for Stephen Ministry. He is the Minister of Pastoral Care at the United Methodist Church of Kent.