10 caregiver gratitudes to reconnect with amidst stress

Many studies, including those of familial caregivers, show that gratitude has the ability to minimize caregiving stress.

When you’re in the middle of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or another condition, much is required of you, and you may experience a good deal of stress. In this post, we name 10 gratitude opportunities to consider as you practice incorporating this coping strategy.

1. Gratitude for moments of connection

One, look for moments of attunement with your loved one. Your loved one may have moments of lucidity in which they can connect with you in a tangible way. Or, they may give you a look or hold onto your hand in a way that communicates, “thank you,” even if they can’t find the words.

2. Gratitude for the opportunity to give back

Two, think of a time your loved one cared for you in your relationship. See if you can reframe your caregiving responsibilities as an opportunity to give back to your loved one some of the love and care they previously showed you.

This may be challenging or painful to consider in some strained relationships or in those with a difficult history. In these cases, shift to gratitude for the dignity or unconditional love you can provide your loved one through caring for them.

3. Gratitude for small achievements

Three, caring for someone with dementia can often feel like an uphill battle. Celebrating small achievements they make—such as completing a task or remembering a name—can provide a sense of accomplishment and positivity that you can share with them. For more on this topic, look at One essential consideration in meaningful caregiving.

4. Gratitude for support networks

Four, caregiving can be isolating, and support networks can help tremendously. Finding an online or in-person support group in which you can connect with other caregivers can make a huge difference in your mental and emotional health. Caregiving may lead you to people in a community or support system who you would have never otherwise had the opportunity to meet.

To explore more about how to find support that suits you, consider: How to identify mental health support that serves you (and quickly spot red flags for what won’t).

5. Gratitude for building strength and resilience

Five, caregiving requires immense strength and resilience. You may surprise yourself with your new perspective and how you can navigate challenges. Recognizing this strength in yourself can provide a sense of empowerment and confidence that only comes through difficult experiences.

6. Gratitude for moments of laughter

Six, caregiving can be conducive to moments of comedic relief. A silly conversation, an absurd situation, or just a moment of reminiscing with your loved one can lighten the mood. When you find yourself smiling, take notice.

7. Gratitude for health and wellness

Seven, being present as someone else’s health declines may allow you time to reflect on your own health and wellness. Life is short and precious. Do your best to take time to care for your own physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Practice gratitude for the abilities and freedoms you have right now.

8. Gratitude for personal growth

Eight, caregiving comes with many life lessons and marketable skills unique to your situation. This can be an opportunity for personal growth and learning in ways you never imagined. You may develop patience, empathy, compassion, and caregiving skills on levels many people never will.

9. Gratitude for honoring life history

Nine, your loved one has a lifetime of memories, relationships, and achievements worth celebrating. Now is a time for reminiscing and honoring their life path, and holding gratitude for sharing some of their experiences.

10. Gratitude for meaningfulness

Ten, caring for someone with Alzheimer's or dementia requires love and dedication based on something deep within you. This love can bring a sense of purpose to caregiving and provide the motivation to keep moving forward.

With all that in mind, let’s also acknowledge that gratitude often comes hand-in-hand with trials. It’s okay to experience grief, anger, depression, or sadness. It’s our hope that in the middle of those feelings, you will also find moments of gratitude that will help propel you through the day-to-day tasks of caring for your loved one. 

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