Meet Elizabeth: Caregiver for Mother with Vascular Dementia

Summary

Elizabeth Thomas reflects on her journey as a caregiver for her mother, Maria, who has vascular dementia. After her mother’s brain aneurysm surgery, Connecticut Community Care (CCCI) provided invaluable support, helping with caregiving and household tasks. Elizabeth emphasizes the importance of self-care for caregivers, using metaphors like the ‘fist’ that squeezes the heart to describe the emotional strain. She shares how creative outlets like writing, especially poetry, help her cope, and underscores the role of organizations like CCCI in easing the burdens of caregiving.

Takeaways

• 😀 Elizabeth Thomas introduces herself and mentions her mother, Maria Thomas, who resides at the Glastonbury Healthcare Center.
• 😀 Maria Thomas was diagnosed with vascular dementia in 1996 after experiencing a brain aneurysm and emergency surgery.
• 😀 Elizabeth is thankful to an unknown person at the hospital who recommended contacting Connecticut Community Care (CCCI) for help.
• 😀 CCCI sent a male aide named John Cook, who had a significant positive impact, providing both caregiving and companionship.
• 😀 As Maria's needs increased, CCCI continued to provide assistance, including help with household chores.
• 😀 Elizabeth describes the emotional toll of caregiving, comparing it to a fist squeezing her heart, which prevents her from breathing or feeling at ease.
• 😀 To cope, Elizabeth encourages people to find outlets, such as creative activities like painting, singing, dancing, or physical activities like running or walking.
• 😀 She emphasizes the importance of organizations like CCCI, which allow caregivers to pursue self-care and maintain their mental well-being.
• 😀 Elizabeth warns that without these outlets, caregivers may feel emotionally crushed, making it harder to cope with the challenges of caregiving.
• 😀 Writing in her weekly blog helps Elizabeth release the emotional pressure and find balance, as it allows her to process and breathe again.
• 😀 Although Elizabeth primarily writes poetry, she stresses the importance of having different types of creative outlets for emotional release and healing.

Q & A

What is the name of the person sharing their story in the transcript?

The person sharing their story is Elizabeth Thomas.

What diagnosis did Elizabeth Thomas' mother receive, and when?

Elizabeth's mother, Maria Thomas, was diagnosed with vascular dementia in 1996.

What event led to Maria Thomas being rushed to the hospital?

Maria Thomas was rushed to the hospital for emergency surgery on a brain aneurysm.

Who suggested that Elizabeth contact Connecticut Community Care (CCCI)?

Someone at the hospital suggested that Elizabeth contact Connecticut Community Care, though Elizabeth does not know the person's identity.

How did Elizabeth first get in touch with Connecticut Community Care (CCCI)?

Elizabeth made some phone calls to Connecticut Community Care and eventually connected with them, which led to receiving help at home.

Who was the first aide provided by Connecticut Community Care, and how did Elizabeth describe him?

The first aide was a male named John Cook, who Elizabeth described as 'amazing' and very helpful in understanding the situation.

What role did Connecticut Community Care play in helping Elizabeth and her family?

Connecticut Community Care not only provided an aide for personal care but also brought in additional help to manage household tasks when needed.

How does Elizabeth describe the emotional experience of caregiving?

Elizabeth compares the emotional strain of caregiving to a 'fist' squeezing the heart, making it hard to breathe, sleep, or eat.

What activities does Elizabeth mention as ways to cope with caregiving stress?

Elizabeth mentions activities like writing, painting, dancing, singing, playing a musical instrument, exercising, or taking long walks as ways to relieve stress.

What role does Connecticut Community Care play in helping caregivers maintain their well-being?

Connecticut Community Care provides support to caregivers, allowing them to pursue outlets like hobbies or activities that help them manage the stress of caregiving.

How does Elizabeth cope with her caregiving responsibilities through writing?

Elizabeth uses writing, particularly poetry, as a way to 'unclench the fist' of emotional strain and find relief. She also maintains a weekly blog to express her feelings.