Caregiver Survival

Receiving news of being diagnosed with Parkinson's is earth-shattering and can feel like the end of the world. Initially the problem may appear bigger than anyone could possibly manage to get their heads around. Pushing away the reality of the prognosis, fighting against the diagnosis and all that follows does not help. A caregiver who sets his/her mind to make the best out of the circumstances and does whatever is possible to help the situation, is not only helping the Parkinson's sufferer, but is also helping him/herself  cope better. By keeping a positive attitude, instead of wallowing in the misfortune of having married someone who has suddenly been diagnosed with Parkinson's, is in fact self preservation for the carer. However, if a caregiver harbours bitter feelings, remains angry, disappointed at what life has dealt out and continually feels let down; although totally understandable, this does not help, but simply exacerbates the problem and causes resentment between husband and wife. Therefore finding a different route, and a way of coping, by working closely as a team, lifting each other's spirits, staying strong for one another, giving comfort and remaining supportive - the outcome is far more rewarding for both sufferer and caregiver.