The Importance of Having a Caring Circle of Friends Support Network
As a practicing End-of-Life Doula and recent caregiver for my mom, I have observed the importance of asking for HELP during serious illness and at end-of-life. Developing a Caring Community of friends and family can literally save your life. The thing is, we need to develop this type of caring circle NOW before we find ourselves faced with illness, hospitalization, or terminal diagnosis.
I am suggesting you begin right now thinking about friends and family who may be called upon when an urgent need or emergency arises. This would consist of the same people you would help if you were called upon for assistance. Make some phone calls, email, and talk to neighbors. Gather everyone for a meeting to discuss ideas. Create a spreadsheet with contact information (names, emails, phone number, addresses. Everyone on the list is committed to help each other as needed. Update regularly.
Having a caring circle of friends and family is of great importance in navigating the complexities of illness, challenges, and end-of-life care. This community of support offers emotional, physical, and psychological sustenance during difficult times.
In summary, a caring circle of friends and family serves as a crucial source of physical, emotional, and practical support throughout life's challenges, ultimately contributing to a person's overall well-being and resilience during difficult times.
Brief summary of the importance of people having a caring circle of friends and family to assist through illness, challenges, and end-of-life support from ChatGPT, August 3, 2023 (edited by Akhila Murphy)
I am suggesting you begin right now thinking about friends and family who may be called upon when an urgent need or emergency arises. This would consist of the same people you would help if you were called upon for assistance. Make some phone calls, email, and talk to neighbors. Gather everyone for a meeting to discuss ideas. Create a spreadsheet with contact information (names, emails, phone number, addresses. Everyone on the list is committed to help each other as needed. Update regularly.
Having a caring circle of friends and family is of great importance in navigating the complexities of illness, challenges, and end-of-life care. This community of support offers emotional, physical, and psychological sustenance during difficult times.
- Emotional Support: A caring community may provide a vital emotional support system during difficult times. They offer comfort, understanding, and empathy, which can significantly alleviate the emotional burden that illness or challenging situations bring.
- Practical Help: A caring circle may assist with daily tasks, such as cooking, cleaning, or transportation to medical appointments, relieving the individual facing illness or challenges from these additional stressors.
- Advocacy: A close friend can serve as an advocate, ensuring that the person's needs and wishes are communicated and respected within the healthcare system, legal processes, or other relevant contexts.
- Reduced Isolation: Facing illness or adversity can be isolating. A caring community can help relieve loneliness by offering companionship and a sense of belonging, which can improve overall well-being.
- Improved Quality of Life: The presence of a caring circle can enhance an individual's quality of life by providing opportunities for social interaction, enjoyable activities, and the creation of positive memories.
- End-of-Life Care: During end-of-life stages, having a caring circle nearby can offer solace, companionship, and the chance to say meaningful goodbyes, making the transition more peaceful and dignified.
In summary, a caring circle of friends and family serves as a crucial source of physical, emotional, and practical support throughout life's challenges, ultimately contributing to a person's overall well-being and resilience during difficult times.
Brief summary of the importance of people having a caring circle of friends and family to assist through illness, challenges, and end-of-life support from ChatGPT, August 3, 2023 (edited by Akhila Murphy)