Caring for an aging parent support in Netherlands 🇳🇱

“Hi, you. I was in the same place eighteen months ago. Back then it was the care assessment. These days I mostly feel like me. From someone who gets it.”

“To someone just starting out caring for an aging parent: I know it feels like your life isn't your own anymore. I've been there. The appointments, the forms, the constant worry. It's okay to be tired. It's okay to ask for help, even if some people let you down. Celebrate the small wins, like a good day or a smile. Look after yourself too, even if it's just ten minutes with a cup of tea. You're doing a good job, even when it doesn't feel like it. And other people are going through the same thing, even if it feels like they're not.”

“I was right where you are two years ago. Dad fell twice this month. That was my life. Yesterday I booked a holiday. It doesn't stay this heavy.”

“To whoever needs this: I was in the same place in 2022. It was driving two hours every weekend and I couldn't see past it. This year I did a 5k, slowly. Things come back, slower than you'd like but they do. You're not on your own.”