YES! Hosted its inaugural Care Partner Wellness Retreat in April, which gave those caring for loved ones affected by young-onset dementia (YOD) a time and space to step out of that role, slow down, and breathe. Fourteen care partners were welcomed by the YES! facilitators at Bon Secours Retreat Center in Marriottsville, MD. As one woman walked in the doors she declared her excitement in getting a night of uninterrupted sleep. YES! was able to offer an overnight stay at the retreat center free of cost to those attending through a generous grant from the Oluv C. Joyner Foundation via the Goldman Sachs Trust Company. This was a key part of taking care of our care partners because YOD has such a strain on finances for many families affected by the disease. The Alzheimer’s Association reports that “compared with caregivers of people without dementia, caregivers of those with dementia indicate more substantial emotional, financial and physical difficulties.” (Alzheimer’s Facts and Figures p46.)
A significant number of current YES! board members are former care partners for their loved ones and understand the toll it takes on a person’s mental, physical, and emotional health. Hosting a care partner wellness retreat has been a goal of YES! for a while, and it was fulfilling to see that dream come true. This will be an annual program for YES! moving forward.
Our guests were enveloped by a soothing ambience, rocking chairs, uplifting messages and a schedule of mindful activities. The retreat centered on a theme of Body, Mind and Soul where care partners put aside the anxieties and pressures of their everyday life. They also had the freedom to attend as much of the retreat as they felt they were able given their individual preferences. Activities throughout the retreat included mindfulness, massage, hiking, Tai Chi, Yoga, and of course, enjoying meals together over excellent food. Everyone agreed that an evening around an open fire pit, sharing our drinks and smores, relaxed conversations, and the surround sound of laughter and a crackling fire was enough to realize how much their body, mind and soul longed for moments like this.
As wonderful as the planned activities were, one of the most important aspects to this retreat to participating care partners was simply being together. Several people remarked on the importance of the bonfire time and on eating meals together as some of their most cherished times of being seen and experiencing community with one another.
“This retreat came at a time when I truly needed it. With the recent passing of my husband from dementia, I was looking forward to getting away from the strain of everyday life. The facilitators literally wrapped us in their warmth, and I felt comfortable from the moment I arrived. Dementia steals our loved ones. Care partners need more events like this one to remember not to let it steam-roll right over us too. Being a care partner means hanging on by a thread every day. My thread became rope after the retreat because of the friends I made and the support they have given me long after the retreat.” Kathy R.
“The Caregiver Retreat was absolutely wonderful and filled with lots of great activities. I finally had the opportunity to relax and get centered.” Valeria S.
“My participation with the group workshops was an added boost to my ability to cope with the challenges that I have at home. Many thanks to my newfound friends that share the challenge.” Darrell T.
“This is what the YES weekend meant to me: a break; time spent with other care partners who know how I feel; sleep; joy; and IT’S ALL ABOUT ME!!! I can be selfish! I think care partners need these day or overnight breaks and to have it paid for by YES was truly a gift of love and appreciation!!! It was wonderful and the bonfire was my favorite part!!” Marie R
“Every airline passenger has heard these words; ‘If you are traveling with children, make sure that your own mask is on first before helping your children.’ Why do they say it? They don’t want two casualties: a parent and a child. Similarly, caregivers’ support is crucial.
The YES team knew that only when we, caregivers, are strong physically, mentally, and emotionally can we support others, especially our loved ones impacted by an unfair disease which attacks the very essence of what it is to be a human.
The YES team not only supported us every month, but also took enormous time and energy to tirelessly plan a retreat for the caregivers. They were great facilitators, they helped us share our burdens, and let go of our burdens.” A. Sandeep
