Crystal B. Edwards and her sister embarked on a profound journey. One that forever changed their lives and the lives of countless others. When their mother suffered a stroke that led to seven years of dementia before her passing, the sisters faced an emotional and logistical challenge that would test their resilience and resourcefulness. Out of their experiences, Crystal created a Facebook group that has become one of the best sources of meaningful and helpful information for adult children caring for aging parents and loved ones. Crystal share, “Starting the group was my way of helping others go through the process of navigating the world of caregiving for their parents. It’s really tough”
A Personal Story of Care and Compassion
Crystal took on the role of the primary caregiver for their mother, managing day-to-day care, medical appointments, and ensuring her comfort with her in Houston, Texas. Despite living miles away in New York, Crystal’s sister was deeply involved in their mother’s care. They discussed every aspect of their mother’s care together, including changes in medication, doctors, and caregivers. This mutual togetherness allowed them to make informed decisions and provide the best possible care for their mother.
Their mother’s dementia, which affected her frontal lobe, caused her to be aggressive and act out. Finding the right combination of medications to help her was very challenging. The sisters transferred their mother to several different facilities because many could not or would not take care of her. “Our journey is real,” Crystal recalls, emphasizing the trials they faced.
The sisters’ combined efforts included hiring helpers to sit with their mother and making daily home visits. The journey was filled with challenges, but it also brought moments of joy and deepened their bond.
“We learned so many things through trial and error and heartbreaks,” Crystal recalls. “There were many days of tears, but also good times.”
Creating a Supportive Network
Realizing the importance of sharing their journey and creating awareness, Crystal decided to establish a Facebook group on June 8, 2019, dedicated to supporting other adult children facing similar challenges. The group, “Caring for Parents with Dementia,” has grown to over 8,500 members, becoming a vibrant community where members can share their experiences, seek advice, and find solace.
The group is a haven for those navigating the complexities of caregiving. Members engage in constant Q&A, sharing advice and offering support. The group has become a treasure trove of knowledge, with wonderful ideas and insights circulating daily.
Real Questions, Real Issues
The strength of the group lies in its authenticity. Members post about real
These posts highlight the real, pressing issues that adult children face daily. The group’s growth underscores the increasing need for such support networks as the aging population expands and more adult children take on the responsibility of caregiving.
A Growing Community
Crystal and her Facebook group is more than just a platform for sharing advice; it is a lifeline for many. The community they have built provides emotional support, practical solutions, and a sense of belonging for those navigating the difficult path of caring for loved ones with dementia.
As the group continues to grow, it stands as a testament to the power of shared experiences and the importance of community in overcoming the challenges of caregiving. Crystal and her sister’s journey, filled with both heartache and joy, has become a beacon of hope and support for thousands of families facing similar trials.
Click here to visit the FACEBOOK group Caring for our elderly parents with Dementia Resource Group