Five recommended books for caregivers

In todays complicated world we are all dealing with multiple facets of challenges. If it is not a dearth of funds to fund children’s education, it is workplace emotional abuse, an imploding family, an estranged child, fear of insecurity or a loved one who is ill. In the face of all of these we all need to show each other some kindness. This act can be quite fulfilling if you decide to smile at a stranger, you do not know what burden people are carrying. I have found that smile may roll back a suicidal person or give comfort to a broken heart.

Being a caregiver is definitely more

far reaching than that and involves caring for a sick relative or parent and it can be daunting. I am somewhat certificated in caregiving as I have a graduate certificate in guidance and counselling from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. I am very proud of that certificate as I was studying for it along with my degree in English. I have always felt the need to be helpful to others and I felt the certificate would be useful someday and I am glad to report that it has been an addition to a gift to help out where I can. Most times it is the emotional value of helping out that we do not offer and that is what most people need. This week I have chosen to focus on those who have to look after the sick, the ailing and the ageing. I have chosen four areas; grief management, stroke management, cancer management and Alzheimer induced dementia. These are tough areas when you are a caregiver. My mother passed from Cancer and I know how hard it was for my siblings and I and my lovely mum and how hard it can be for most caregivers and the patient. I hope these books speak to as many caregivers as possible. They make the sacrifice and do the needful. It’s a job for which we must offer praise and empathy. Always.