Who am I at this point, and just what worth and function do I play?  How has our care program been transformed, and how has care changed? You’ve been doing this for a long time, as it seems like a lifetime, and, on occasion, actual dates and occurrences run together.  You’ve experienced it all:  hospitalizations, doctors who seem to know comparatively minimal with regard to PD, rehabilitation programs, and a wide array of community services.  You may begin to question the recommendations proposed by healthcare professionals; you’ve been “in the system:” long enough to know what works and what doesn’t.

Some family members and healthcare professionals may question your ability to find humor in challenging situations.  They might perceive your attitude as ‘callous’ or uncaring. But in reality, you possess a practical, resilient approach to your caregiving role. Your sense of humor is not a sign of indifference, but a crucial tool for your own survival, a testament to your strength and adaptability.

You may wonder about your personal worth to your care partner and family. To gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your role, it’s important to step back and reflect.  The first three stages have laid the foundation for this stage of personal development, highlighting your integral role in the caregiving process.

Discover peacefulness as well as pleasure within this relationship, not permitting the day-to-day activities to take advantage of these special, unique, and shared moments varying from bathing to incontinence care.  It is good to consider these types of opportunities to have fun.

This is a genuine possibility that conventional communication practices are no longer feasible; therefore, adjust to make your own personal communication medium.  This is actually crucial to be able to ensure your own self as well as identity.  Always keep in mind you are the most crucial person in this; if you have a breakdown physically, psychologically, or emotionally, the entire system falls apart.  Now is the time to start contemplating your long-term future, exactly what it holds, and what issues will need to be addressed in order to prepare for your own future life.