Discovering Joy in Caregiving

“Experiencing joy while caregiving isn’t always easy, but I believe it’s more than just a nice thing to do: It’s a crucial survival skill. I’ve learned to prioritize both noticing the inherent joys throughout the day as well as proactively creating joyful moments.”

– Amy Goyer, AARP

Let’s talk about caregiving and joy. Did you know that there is an important connection between these two things?

Depending on the level of caregiver stress you are feeling today, it may feel like these two words shouldn’t be in the same sentence. That’s a valid point. Or, maybe today has felt a little more predictable or calm and you’re able to think of joyful moments even before reading this.

No matter your starting point, as a caregiver, joy has a positive impact on your wellbeing, endurance, and overall stress level. As Amy Goyer states, “It’s a crucial survival skill.” Joy adds happiness to already good days and helps you survive tough days.

Joy helps you put your best foot forward as a caregiver and can create meaningful moments of connection between you and your loved one.

Inherent Joy 
Inherent joy often exists in our day, waiting to be acknowledged. It’s already built in but easily overlooked. Why do we often miss it? While caregiving, many things are calling out for your attention, and inherent joy is more of a soft whisper. If we’re too busy or too stressed, we’re not able to hone in on it. The birds chirping outside, the warmth of the sunshine, the phone call from a friend, an unexpected peaceful moment or the opportunity to read part of your favorite book. These moments add up, and if we can learn to acknowledge and embrace them, our caregiver energy level will increase.

Created Joy 
We can also create joy. It can be something as simple as buying a new coffee blend because you enjoy savoring the aroma and flavor when you brew the first cup. Maybe you’re meeting a friend for lunch because it lifts your spirits to have time with them.  Or, you decide to find your mom’s cookie recipe and make them for you and your dad to enjoy, flooding both of you with wonderful memories. These are moments that we plan and create. Intentional moments of joy.

Choose Joy 
Both types of joy are good for the body, mind and soul. Make a point to acknowledge the inherent joys that take place throughout the day and take a proactive approach to create joyful interactions between you and your loved one. As a caregiver, you’ll be there for tough moments with your loved one, but you’ll also be there for many special moments. Let’s work to make the most out of each moment.