Caregivers Lament

“Caregiver’s Lament” by Elizabeth F. Wagoner, EdD, RN is the loving story of a retired nurse educator who finds the retirement she had looked forward to turn into a worrisome, stressful period in her life after her husband, Frank, is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

They’re able to spend several years traveling and enjoying life. However, as Frank’s health declined, they moved from their home in Pennsylvania to Florida, hoping for several more years of ‘quality time.’ Unfortunately, within approximately six months, Frank’s ability to perform daily tasks diminished to the point where Wagoner had to look for an ALF (Assisted Living Facility). She struggled with her emotions over ten years as Frank spent his time between home, ALFs, and hospitals, feeling guilt for not being able to care for him herself.

Wagoner shares her caregiver’s experience in the hope of easing the burden of others in that situation. Whiel this work focuses on Parkinson’s, the caregiver’s experience is universal.