A Caregiver's Well-Being - by Thomas Finn & Donna Finn (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Develop the skills to master the rip current of emotions inherent in caring for a loved one with dementia.

Caregivers know the stress and emotional turmoil of caring for loved ones with dementia. What if you could manage that stress while strengthening your caregiving relationships? A Caregiver's Well-Being teaches you how to thrive, not just survive, by blending proven psychological coping principles, practical dementia caregiving skills, and the authors' personal experiences of caring for a loved one living with dementia.

Drawing from the fields of biology, psychology, and stress management, Thomas and Donna Finn provide concrete tools to prepare for and manage stress while discovering deeper meaning in caregiving. Addressing common feelings like anxiety, sadness, guilt, and frustration, these tools will help you navigate the stress of caring while keeping sight of your loved one's dignity as a person.

Whether you have been in a care partner role for years or are new to the emotional challenges of caring for someone with dementia, A Caregiver's Well-Being will help you build the skills necessary for mastering the journey of caregiving.

Review Quotes

"Caring for a loved one with dementia can be an isolating and overwhelming journey-but it doesn't have to be. This compassionate guide reminds caregivers they are not alone and empowers them to care for their loved ones while safeguarding their own well-being-a true lifeline in difficult times. Packed with practical suggestions and wisdom, this is a must-read road map for caregivers seeking guidance, reassurance, and hope even in the toughest moments."

-Christine A. Padesky, PhD, distinguished founding fellow, Academy of Cognitive & Behavioral Therapies; cofounder, Center for Cognitive Therapy; coauthor of Mind Over Mood: Change How You Feel by Changing the Way You Think

"This book would be one of the first resources I would use if I found myself needing to care for a person living with dementia. Tom and Donna Finn-both medical professionals-share their knowledge and their personal caregiving journey with Donna's mom. Caregiving is unfortunately known to be a lonely, stressful path, but the Finn's book is like a big hug and a deep breath, relieving the daily stresses while also finding a renewed relationship with those you care for."

-Carrie Aalberts, MS, also known as Dementia Darling, dementia advocate and educator; cohost of Gather Darlings podcast

"Admonition for self-care without providing rational understanding and concrete guidance compounds the stress and frustration of those who care for loved ones living with dementia. NOT A Caregiver's Well-Being! With the professional knowledge and skills of an experienced clinical psychologist and the wisdom and empathy forged in caring for a loved one, the Finns provide a gold mine of deep understanding and proven practical guidance for healthfully managing the inherent stress of caregiving. Even more, they guide caregivers on a journey toward psychological, relational, and spiritual wholeness as they care for those they love."

-Bishop Kenneth L. Carder, Ruth W. and A. Morris Williams, Jr. distinguished professor emeritus, Duke Divinity School; author of Ministry with the Forgotten: Dementia Through a Spiritual Lens