Caring for a spouse through the challenges of physical or mental health is one of the most profound acts of love. For many residents, the role of caregiver comes with immense rewards but also significant obstacles. Their journey is often marked by a delicate balance between attending to a loved one’s needs and preserving one’s own health and well-being. At Bishop Gadsden, we recognize the unique needs of resident caregivers and have built a network of support through caregiver groups and wellness initiatives to bring a holistic approach to care.

The emotional and physical toll of caregiving cannot be overstated. Many caregivers experience fatigue and burnout, compounded by feelings of guilt when taking time for themselves. Caregiver fatigue often emerges slowly but can deeply affect one’s ability to provide quality care, and the guilt worsens these symptoms as they let fatigue overtake them, worrying that any moment spent on self-care is a moment taken away from their spouse. These emotions are natural but can become overwhelming without the right outlets and support systems. These struggles encompass all aspects of a caregiver’s life - mental, physical, social, and emotional health - which is why holistic wellness is the cornerstone of the support within our community.

Our weekly caregiver support group provides residents with a safe, understanding, and private environment where they can connect with others who truly understand their experience. These meetings are far more than discussions; they’re an opportunity for caregivers to learn, grow, and recharge. Dorothy Cryan, Healthcare Admissions Coordinator, and Ashley Shaver, Social Services Coordinator, who helped bring this group to life, will research and discuss weekly topics, and provide an open forum for discussion. Sessions like these provide insight into challenges like managing stress or navigating the complexities of caregiving as well as supply them with helpful tidbits to use day-to-day. They also offer a private environment to hear about on-campus services like BG at Home, the Care Navigation team, social workers, and the different communities of care provided by Bishop Gadsden specifically tailored for the caregiver group. Fun outings like the recent brunch off-campus give attendees a chance to step away from routine, enjoy a change of scenery, and create moments of joy together. Perhaps most importantly, the group fosters camaraderie, where caregivers share advice, encouragement, and a sense of solidarity that reminds them they are not alone.

While the two team members provide resources and plan events, the residents lead the group - listening to one another, sharing their experiences, and passing along guidance. Dorothy always encourages them to finish their time together each week by sharing these affirmative experiences. “At the end of the class, I ask the group to talk about a positive aspect since the last meeting.” Walking away each week with cheerful thoughts can help these members enter the next week with confidence and joy.

While the discussion group provides mental and emotional support, the wellness center provides an outlet for physical care. Caregivers often put their own physical health on hold while attending to the needs of their spouse, which can exacerbate stress and fatigue. Through the attention and care our Wellness team provides caregivers can rediscover the power of movement and relaxation. Whether it’s participating in a gentle yoga class, walking on a treadmill in the gym, or engaging in a one-on-one fitness session, these activities are designed not only to improve physical health but to alleviate tension and boost emotional well-being. Many of these wellness opportunities are structured to include the spouse being cared for, so caregivers don’t have to feel torn between focusing on their own health and remaining present for their loved one. Exercising together provides a sense of security and closeness, ensuring caregivers know their spouse is safe while they both enjoy the benefits of staying active. As Nathan Calhoun, Wellness Manager, has experienced with two couples, “The residents have a strong peace of mind exercising together. The caregiver is at ease knowing they have their spouse nearby and don’t have to worry about them on their own. This calming effect is also true for the spouse. Having their partner there is comforting and allows them to relax into the workout with a trusted person by their side.” He has seen firsthand the positive impact wellness has had on both the caregiver and the spouse they care for. “It’s amazing to see how comfortable they become as they continue their routine. They start cheering each other on, which creates a motivated environment for everyone.”

For those who are hesitant to join, the idea of stepping outside of their daily routines may seem daunting. Caregivers often develop deeply ingrained habits to ensure the comfort and stability of their spouse, and disrupting those routines can feel risky. However, introducing small changes can have transformative effects. A new environment, such as a support group meeting or wellness class, can offer fresh perspectives and a much-needed mental reset. Creating new routines together, or even for a short time apart, can open the door to greater balance and better quality of care. Caregivers often find that taking time for themselves allows them to return to their role with renewed energy and a clearer mind, which ultimately benefits both them and their spouses.

The key to alleviating caregiver fatigue and guilt lies in building a community of understanding and support. “This group has allowed residents to find a community within their community. With other residents to rely on, they don’t feel like they are doing it alone anymore,” says Ashley. Bishop Gadsden is more than just a place to live—it’s a network of people dedicated to lifting one another up. By offering opportunities for education, shared experiences, and wellness, we create an environment where caregivers feel empowered to care for themselves while continuing to provide compassionate care for their loved ones.

It’s important for caregivers to remember that taking time for self-care is not selfish—it’s essential. By participating in a support group, engaging in wellness activities, or simply allowing themselves moments to have fun, rest, and recharge, caregivers can build the resilience needed to navigate the tasks of their role. The path of caregiving is undoubtedly tough, but with the right support, it can also be filled with moments of connection, growth, and love.