I is for Identity

Holding on to your identity is important when you become a carer otherwise you can loose yourself in the role. We have so many lables within society that the true essence of who you are becomes a distant memory. There was a time in the early years of mums illness that I felt like the more I did for my mum the more I lost a piece of myself,  and was totally consumed.  It reminded me of the fragility of life, I knew that I had to hold on to who I was.

Growing up I was looking forward to relating to my mum as a mother myself, going to her for advice and sharing the joy of watching my children – her grandchildren grow up.  As a carer you loose your identity in society, the cared for have carers - an entity in themselves and many no longer have family members around.  Communities fragmented and the extended family becomes devalued and a thing of the past as the elderly are seen as a burdon, rather than filled with wisdom, memories and insight.

I found separating the roles helps and enables me to still enjoy my mothers company despite how dependant she becomes.

Words so far....

A is for Alzheimer’s, B is for Behaviour, C is for Carer, D is for Dependant, E is for Enough, F is for Fear, G is for Guilt, H is for Health Professionals

These posts are part of the A-Z Challenge taking place during the month of April.  I have been sharing about my experience as a carer to a mother with Dementia.  If you would like to know more join the Arts in Health Network and also check out my website for information on some of the work I have done with Creativity and Dementia.