It’s funny how you never hear certain terms until they become a part of your life. Like the         term  “caregiver.” Such a simple term.  I’m sure it was out there, floating around in space, being used by         millions of people, but until I became one, I just didn’t notice it.

        About two years ago we moved my husband’s mother to a little house around the corner from us. We         knew her dementia would mean she’d need more help, but we really didn’t have a clue what to         expect. A little research on the Internet and we knew that’s what we had become --- caregivers. And         we found those millions of people who already embodied the essence of the term. We were not alone.

        We are Baby Boomers. We are certainly not alone, and many of us are “Caregiver” tagged now. It’s not         necessarily a bad thing. Caregiving can be very rewarding, but when it’s new, it’s scary.

        Just this week we received an article I thought interesting and helpful to caregivers, so I’d like to pass it         on. It is called, "50 Communication Tips and Techniques for         Caregivers" (http://www.rncentral.com/nursing-library/careplans/50_communication_tips_for_caregivers         <http://www.rncentral.com/nursing-library/careplans/50_communication_tips_for_caregivers> ).

        Check it out. I bet you’ll get some good ideas if you, too, are a caregiver.

        Oh, and if you work or live away from your loved one, you may want to consider         subscribing to www.TenderTidings.com or www.TenderTidingsSeniors.com.

        The first is a child monitoring system for working moms and dads who have children at home they want         to watch by videostream through the Internet. The second is a senior monitoring system for those of us         with elderly parents. Remote video monitoring systems can make all the difference for caregivers and for         the ones they love. When you can both see and hear your loved one at the click of a mouse, you         become a better caregiver just because you are staying better connected.

        Hmmm. Caregiver. Couldn’t get along without that word now.