When my wife became seriously ill and suddenly needed round-the-clock care at home, my world turned upside down. I've spent years juggling the demands of a college professor, running a business, and making tough decisions under pressure. But caring for someone I love tested me in ways I never could have anticipated. No lesson, conference, or boardroom meeting prepared me for the reality of caregiving -yet, in so many ways, that experience called on every skill I'd built as an entrepreneur and professor.
By design, caregiving is an imbalanced relationship. We often understand this logically before stepping into the role, yet the constant giving can come at the expense of our own health and well-being. Without conscious effort, many caregivers find themselves depleted, burned out, or even resentful-emotions that intensify when they don't feel seen or supported. That's where boundaries come in. Boundaries are the limits we set-both internally and externally-to protect our well-being and maintain balance in relationships.
Nearly 30 years ago, we went on a vacation with my two little boys to Sanibel Island. We chose a pizza place because, why not? But the pizza they served was, of course, different from our pizza at home. I remember watching with dismay as my oldest son, Nat, who has fairly profound autism, took a bite, scrunched up his face, and said, "Vacation" with angry tears in his voice.
She is currently dealing with serious health issues related to endometriosis. This condition not only affects her physically but has also taken a toll on her emotional well-being. I've been as supportive as possible. I've attended doctor's appointments with her, am helping manage her medications, and have taken on additional responsibilities to lighten her load. I want to be there for her, and I care about her comfort and happiness.
Cruzer’s video emphasizes the emergence of 'helicopter daughters' who feel compelled to oversee their parents’ well-being in their aging years. The humor underscores a real stress over health as family roles flip.
Improv requires performers to pay close attention to each other and be open to continual discovery. A similar external focus and curiosity can help those caring for people with dementia avoid burnout and remain more patient and connected.
"This morning, you likely heard the heartbreaking news for my friend @sheinelle_o and her family. The love of her life, her partner, the father of her kids, Uche Ojeh, lost his battle with brain cancer."