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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.”Â
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?Â
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.Â
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