Embracing Caregiving: A Transformative Journey for the Body, Mind, Heart, and Spirit

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As we journey through life, we inevitably encounter transitions. Some are exciting, while others may challenge our sense of identity and independence. One of the most difficult, yet deeply human, transitions is the acceptance of caregiving. Whether you already rely on assistance for daily living or foresee this need in the future, preparing for the dance between independence, dependence, and ultimately interdependence can be an empowering step toward personal growth.

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AARP New York invites you to “Embracing Caregiving: A Transformative Journey for the Body, Mind, Heart and Spirit” a four-part Zoom workshop series designed to provide a thoughtful space for exploring this transition with openness and grace. Led by an experienced Sage-ing® Mentor, these 90-minute sessions will guide participants through the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of accepting caregiving, offering practical insights and emotional support.

What to Expect: Sessions Tailored to Your Needs

Each workshop is crafted to help you navigate different facets of accepting caregiving and accepting help, with the opportunity to engage in small group sharing, reflection, and guided journaling. Whether you're currently experiencing the need for assistance or contemplating the future, these sessions are designed to support you in accepting caregiving from a place of empowerment.

All events are from 4 p.m. - 5:30 p.m ET

Session 1: The Journey for the Body | Tuesday, November 12, 2024
Register: https://events.aarp.org/Caregiving_Body1112

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In this session, participants will explore the physical challenges of aging and how to accept assistance as a natural part of this life stage. Key topics include:

• Identifying physical needs and how to embrace "saging" as we age.
• Uncovering barriers to accepting help and finding ways to overcome them.
• Reflecting on what graceful acceptance might look like, with space for curiosity, fear, and hope.

Session 2: The Journey for the Mind | Tuesday, November 19, 2024
Register: https://events.aarp.org/Caregiving_Mind1119

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Accepting caregiving isn’t just a physical transition; it also involves a shift in mindset. This session invites participants to:

• Examine the mental models that drive resistance to receiving care, such as the belief that it's better to give than to receive.
• Discuss strategies for fostering mutual trust in caregiver relationships and managing practical concerns like finances, home care, and important documents.
• Envision your "best self" as a receiver of care, focusing on resilience and dignity.

Session 3: The Journey for the Heart | Tuesday, November 26, 2024
Register: https://events.aarp.org/Caregiving_Heart1126 

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This emotionally focused session will prompt participants to explore:

• Their relationships to solitude and community.
• The importance of support networks, social connections, and gratitude.
• The need for forgiveness—both for oneself and others—and the legacy they hope to leave behind.

Session 4: The Journey for the Spirit | Tuesday, December 3, 2024
Register: https://events.aarp.org/Caregiving_Spirit1203 

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In the final session, participants will delve into the spiritual aspects of accepting caregiving. Discussions will center around:

• Clarifying personal priorities and nurturing intuition.
• Practicing the art of letting go.
• Providing feedback and asking continuing questions to keep the journey of growth alive.

This series offers an opportunity to reflect on accepting caregiving as a two-way exchange—an evolving relationship where both the caregiver and the receiver can grow, heal, and thrive. It’s a chance to face the challenges of aging and care with a sense of purpose, deepening connections, and even joy.

Bring a journal and an open heart to each session. Whether you're currently receiving care, anticipating it, or are simply curious about the topic, these sessions will leave you with valuable insights, practical strategies, and a sense of peace in embracing the inevitable changes that life brings.

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