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CAREGIVING

The Pattern of Caregiver Development

| 4 Minute Read
Written by: Meaning & Hope Institute

Based on the work of Dr. Aaron Blight and used with permission.

Navigating the role of a caregiver is akin to embarking on an intricate journey through uncharted terrain. Caregivers aren’t born with an innate knack for caregiving; instead, they grow into their roles, often in response to the evolving health conditions of their loved ones. This process of adaptation, though often unconscious, equips caregivers with an ever-improving ability to provide care.

This journey of caregiver development follows a distinctive pattern, characterized by five key states: 

  • Being
  • Connecting
  • Trying 
  • Adjusting
  • Committing

These states form a continuous cycle that caregivers undergo in their caregiving journey. Each state is marked by a distinct set of values, such as presence, trust, action, learning, and love, which guide caregivers in their actions and decisions.

We invite you to read the full article by Dr. Blight on the Caregiving Kinetics website for a deeper understanding of how caregiving transforms not only the caregiver’s role but their life more broadly.

Download the one-sheet resource guide:  The Pattern of Caregiver Development

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