Last week, I had a fascinating chat with the caregiving guru (and I don't use that word lightly), Denise Brown. Denise is the founder of the Caregiving Years Training Academy and has been guiding caregivers to resources and wisdom for almost 30 years. If you have a break in your day, grab a cup of tea or coffee and listen!
Denise said something that really got me thinking. She remarked that both caregivers and those we care for are in a state of crisis because we do not have our basic needs met. I've been reflecting on the worst times in my caring life and I thought, "that's true. Those were the times that my needs were not met. And I was frantic that I wasn't meeting the needs of my loved ones too."
So I began to ask myself, "What ARE basic human needs?" A quick google search led me to this article on Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. Maslow was the clever scientist who devised this theory showing that (moving from the bottom of the pyramid upwards) we need our physical needs met before we can address higher level emotional or spiritual needs. But all these needs are important in human flourishing.
Looking at this pyramid, which of your needs are fulfilled? Which needs are not being met currently in your life? What about the person you care for?
Throughout the month of May, National Caregiver Month is celebrated across Canada to acknowledge the over 8 million people providing care to a family member, friend, neighbor or chosen family across the country. #CaregiverAware is a national campaign to raise awareness about the experiences of caregivers in Canada. I wonder how many of us have our basic needs met. Let's talk about our need for support and the right to an ordinary life that feels safe and liveable. Maybe Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs gives us the language to talk about getting the help we need to survive and thrive.
2 comments:
Hello, I am an academic writer with seven years of expertise in English Literature Dissertation Writing Service. Dedicated to crafting insightful and compelling dissertations, I am passionate about helping students excel in their literary academic pursuits.
What an insightful conversation with Denise Brown, the caregiving expert! It made me ponder how crucial seamless communication is, not only in caregiving but also in logistics. Just as Denise guides caregivers, reliable international freight forwarding ensures smooth navigation through the complexities of global cargo movement.
Post a Comment