| Blog

March 30, 2013 |

Take care of you while being a caregiver provider

 

“Family caregivers are a living paradox. Why would people who devote so much time and effort to taking care of someone else manage to give so little attention to themselves?  I have a feeling that the reason lies somewhere between ‘the thought never crossed my mind because I just do whatever caregiving tasks I need to do’ and ‘being tired and on a time-crunch, given a choice between working out or preparing a gloriously nutritious meal and sleeping, I’ll take the comfy pillow, thank you very much!’”

“...

August 13, 2012 |

Respect for caregivers and for the incredible work done by the TRC

I've been involved with the TRC for almost 10 years, but it took my father getting sick and passing away for me to fully understand the power and importance of respite. I witnessed first-hand the love and attention that family members give, the sacrifices they make and the beautiful chaos that comes with caregiving. What had been just  a theory became real to me. It gave me newfound respect for caregivers and for the incredible work done by...

August 8, 2012 |

Proud of being part of the TRC

I started working for the TRC six months ago, and I have to say I have never been more proud to be a part of such an organization.  I am surrounded by a staff that is so kind, helpful and dedicated to the families in need of respite.  I have learned so much about the important needs of family caregivers, and I hope to help spread the word about such an essential non-profit organization.  

After having lived in New York for almost 9 years, it was very nice to move back home to Nashville, Tennessee.  As a previous volunteer at ground zero, after September 11th, my...

July 9, 2012 |

Family caregiving is something very near and dear to my heart and to my family.

In April 2012 we lost my grandmother, who lived with my parents for approximately two years before finally being admitted to a full time care facility under hospice care.  Although we lost her in April, the process of receiving caregiving for Grandma was such a blessing for our family.

For the most part I felt very helpless throughout the whole process.  I live in Tennessee while my family lives in Colorado.  It was tough for them to make visits or go on trips together.  It was tough to even plan a night out with friends.  It was tough for me not to be able...

June 11, 2012 |

Art of Time

Recently, the TRC held a fund raising event titled “The Art of Time” where original works of art were made available at both silent and live auctions.  It was a great event and a good time for those who came out.  At the event, one of the caregivers that has benefitted from TRC’s respite program told us about her 90-year-old mother who lives with her and her husband and what a blessing our respite program has been to her family.  I remember thinking “this is what it’s all about.”

If you haven’t realized it in your life...

April 23, 2012 |

When Caregivers Reverse Roles

This year marked five years since the passing of my grandmother. Of all my grandparents, I was especially close to Granny, who lived across the holler, as we say in the South, from our house. Her home was my refuge during hot Tennessee summers before my parents had air conditioning, an escape from a new baby brother, a place to bake cookies and play dress-up with costume jewelry and silk scarves. She was my baby-sitter, my reading teacher, my cooking instructor. She was my chauffeur, taking me shopping for a new school wardrobe, to my best friend's house or to the sunrise service at...

February 29, 2012 |

Taxes for Caregivers

 
While most people dread the time of year to file taxes; there could be big potential for most caregivers to benefit in tax deductions! There are resources that provide caregivers a better understanding of tax laws, and facilitate potential tax reimbursements that are available when supporting a loved one.
 
Please go to AgingCare.com, and view "Tax Tips for Caregivers" which has a special section of the website that provides several tips to assist you. You will discover information...

January 1, 2012 |

Caregivers New Year Resolution

Happy New Year!  Instead of making resolutions that we can’t keep, it’s time to make goals for yourself that are attainable and actually something to look forward to!   

TIME FOR ME!
It’s a good idea for Caregivers to create a list of things they would like to do, when they are given the gift of Respite.  Whether it mean going for a walk in the park, talking to a friend, napping, writing a letter, going to see a movie….have something planned so you can really enjoy yourself!  You deserve it!

...

October 31, 2011 |

Welcome to the Tennessee Respite Coalition Blog!

We are excited to provide this space for discussion of topics affecting family caregivers and information about the TRC.  Check back here often or subscribe to get the most up to date information about Respite.

November is National Family Caregiver Month!  The TRC has several events planned around the state to support and recognize family caregivers.  Check out our calendar of events for more information.  But this will only reach a fraction of caregivers in Tennessee.  If you know a family caregiver, here are some ways you can...