The Value of Sharing Our Stories

Over the past 25 years, I have worked with family caregivers in a variety of settings. A former caregiver myself, I’ve devoted my life’s work to helping families deal with the issues related to the changing needs of older adults. I’ve been an advocate, an educator and have even worked to create programs designed to help caregivers navigate the challenges associated with caring for an aging loved one. But, no matter what hat I wear, I continue to be amazed at how sharing our stories can be such a source of support.

Sharing a common experience helps us develop a close bond with others, and it is there that we can find the strength, guidance and emotional support we may need on our own personal journeys. As such, support groups can provide valuable insight and practical solutions to their members. These groups lend hope to the hopeless, and help replace feelings of fear and loneliness with the priceless knowledge that someone has been there before you, and that someone is there to help you walk through whatever challenges you face. 

Unfortunately, with the hectic pace of our world today, we may not always be able to participate in a caregiver support group. To help, Senior Solutions, a service of St. Andrew’s and St. Luke’s, has created a virtual support group where caregivers can go online to share their stories and reap the rewards of hearing the experiences of others. It is a place where individuals can vent their frustrations, voice their concerns, take pride in their victories and simply let other caregivers share in their journeys. 

Within this space, caregivers can discuss resources they’ve found helpful, highlight the challenges they’ve faced and share what they’ve done to overcome them, but that’s just the beginning. There are countless topics just waiting to be addressed and a myriad of stories waiting to be told. Visitors to this online space can feel free to share as much or as little as they’d would like and even do so anonymously if they choose. Regardless of how much or how little is shared, everyone who visits the forum can benefit from knowing they are helping both themselves and others just like them.

If you would like to share your story, please visit our website at www.seniorsolutions-stl.com and click on the tab “For Caregivers.”  This will take you to a link where you can share your personal caregiving story.  Our website also offers a wide variety of resources and educational materials that you may find helpful.

Ann Bannes is Vice President of Senior Solutions, a service of St. Andrew’s and St. Luke’s. Senior Solutions offers a wealth of services designed to help caregivers cope with the challenges of caring for an aging family member, friend or loved one. To learn more, visit www.seniorsolutions-stl.com or call 314-726-5766.