Page 193 – Guideposts Articles

5 Ways to Respond When a Loved One Asks to Speak with Someone Who Has Died

Posted on March 11, 2026March 12, 2026 by Ashley Lateef

This article is based on information provided by Home Instead Senior Care.

When an Alzheimer’s patient asks to speak to someone who has died, it can be very upsetting for you as a caregiver, especially if the person is someone you also knew and loved. It also presents many challenges. Should you tell the person that the one they want to speak to is no longer alive? The news would be so upsetting to someone who is already in a somewhat fragile state. Consider these tips on how to respond to these requests.

1. Go along with it if possible. You will probably just agitate your loved one if you try to correct or disagree with the request.

2. Tell your loved one that the deceased person has stepped out briefly, is asleep, will visit later, etc.

3. Look at the situation through your loved one’s eyes. If they wake up and think they are 30 years old again and, getting ready for dinner in their hometown with their family, don’t resist the situation. Meet right there and become a part of that reality.

4. Distract your loved one by walking around the yard and looking at trees, turning on the TV, getting an ice cream cone, etc.

5. If your loved one insists on talking to this person, get them on the phone with someone who can pretend to be their mother, husband, sister, etc.

5 Ways to Rebuild Your Life After Caregiving Ends

Posted on March 11, 2026March 12, 2026 by The Editors

Sonsyrea Tate was surprised—and delighted—when her 97-year-old grandfather bounced back after the end of his beloved wife’s struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. But moving on after caregiving can be complicated. Former caregivers can suffer from guilt, exhaustion and confusion, among other things.

“Caregiving inevitably changes us,” says David Troxel, an internationally known expert on Alzheimer’s and coauthor, with Virginia Bell, of The Best Friends Approach to Alzheimer’s Care. Here’s how to heal and transition smoothly into your next chapter.

Stick with your support group. If you’ve enjoyed the camaraderie of a caregiving support group, consider staying on. “It can benefit you even after a family member has passed away,” Troxel says. “You can act as a kind of mentor and share your wisdom with the group.” Another option: Join a bereavement group (through a church, synagogue or hospice).

Learn a new skill. Studies confirm: Building new skills helps ward off dementia and boosts well-being. Now that you have more time, take up a new activity. What have you always wanted to try? How about taking language classes or music lessons or learning how to knit or sew? “It can be fun and good for your brain, body and spirit,” Troxel says.

Reach out to family and friends. “Even after a formal service, consider gathering with loved ones and talking about your experience, lessons learned and plans for the future,” Troxel says. “If you have a lot of pent-up feelings, don’t be shy. Let folks know how you are feeling; ask for a hug. You’ll be surprised at how many people will be there for you.”

Consider moving. “I tell grieving families: Don’t make any major decisions for at least one year,” says Troxel. “But then be bold! If you’ve always dreamed of moving into the city and living in a small apartment and being within walking distance of coffee shops and theaters, go for it. Moving can open up a lot of new horizons in your life.”

Give back. It’s no surprise to Troxel that the volunteer rosters at the Alzheimer’s Association are full of former caregivers. “It’s so impactful to be able to share what you’ve learned. It is a wonderful way to give a sense of purpose to your years of caregiving,” he says. Or you might consider working as a caregiver with a company like Home Instead. ”It is part of the healing process to be out in the world, helping others,” he says.

For more information about the caregiving journey or caregiving careers, go to homeinstead.com.

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5 Ways to Keep Hopes and Dreams Alive

Posted on March 11, 2026March 12, 2026 by Kimberly Elkins

Most of us are living through unprecedented changes in our lives, with schools and businesses shut down in response to the Covid-19 virus. During these days of social distancing, we often need to focus on day-to-day needs. Even if there is time to imagine the future, it can be hard to do so.

“The uncertainty is scary,” said Dr. Lea Waters, a positive psychology expert. “Thinking about, and taking steps to create, a positive future is vitally important.”

Dr. Waters is the founding director of the Centre for Positive Psychology at the University of Melbourne, and the author of The Strength Switch. She turns her science and research into strength-based strategies to help organizations, educators and parents build resilience in their employees and children.

She talked with Guideposts.org about the practical steps we can take to nurture our dreams for our lives after this crisis has passed.

1. Use hope to cope

One of the biggest things people are struggling with during the pandemic is feeling stuck in the difficult present and afraid to look to the future. This is where hope comes in: Hope pulls us into the future, Dr. Waters explained, and, by doing so, helps us cope better with the present circumstances. “Allowing yourself to hope doesn’t mean you’re ignoring or whitewashing the hardship we’re going through,” Dr. Waters said, “but that you’re attempting to rise above it and give yourself the motivation to move forward.”

Recent studies show that hope leads us to maximize psychological adjustment by reducing anxiety, increasing motivation, and helping us pursue goal-directed actions. “All of these are outcomes we need to cope right now,” Dr. Waters said.

2. Dare to dream big

According to Dr. Waters, it’s crucial to your emotional well-being to continue planning and dreaming for the future, even when that future looks uncertain. She suggests making bucket lists of things you’ve always wanted to do or accomplish. “Suspend your reality for the moment, and allow yourself to feel happy about this imagined future,” said Dr. Waters. “Later, you can focus on mundane realities like budget, but for now just let your brain dream.”

Envision the items on your list in detail and take the time to research the best courses of action. For that long-awaited trip, tap into the wealth of online videos, brochures and itineraries for your desired destination. Or for that redecoration project, get ideas from catalogues, decorating websites and Pinterest.

3. Dare to dream small

On a smaller scale, make plans with friends to meet for a walk or to go for dinner at your favorite restaurant when the all-clear’s sounded. Think of outings you and your loved ones can look forward to, movies or sporting events or even trips to the mall. There’s no need to try to pin down when these things might happen. Positive anticipation can be almost as rewarding as the events themselves.

4. Consider making changes

Use this time of isolation and sheltering-in-place as an opportunity to reflect on any changes you’d like to make in your life. For example, many people are reinvesting in relationships or spending more time with family. “My own family is thinking about how we can restructure our previously hectic lives to intentionally make things slower once the pandemic has passed,” Dr. Waters said. Once you decide what changes would be beneficial, come up with specific steps you can take to enact them when the time is right. You can always adapt your plans as the situation continues to evolve.

5. Look for the silver linings

Even the worst of times usually bring with them some unexpected blessings, and you don’t need to be a Pollyanna to see them. Maybe you’re learning to budget better or to be happier with less. Maybe you’re seeing the benefits of getting back to basics. Whatever it is, acknowledge the new shift and be grateful.

“Because the whole world is going through this together,” Dr. Waters said, “I believe the silver lining is the collective compassion, kindness, sense of connection and common humanity we are feeling towards each other.”

5 Ways to Help Someone with Chewing and Swallowing Problems When They Eat

Posted on March 11, 2026March 12, 2026 by Ashley Lateef

This article is based on information provided by Home Instead Senior Care.

Mealtimes can be a challenge for someone who has trouble chewing and swallowing due to Alzheimer’s. If your family member needs your assistance with eating, you may want to consider the following suggestions:

1. Make sure your loved one is eating in an upright position.

2. Alternate solids with sips of liquids.

3. As he or she eats, put additional liquids into the foods—for example, pour more milk into the oatmeal.

4. Gently coach your loved one through the meal: “Great, Dad. You can open your mouth…now close…now chew…swallow…”

5. Try touching his or her chin or cheek as a comforting way to stimulate chewing.

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5 Ways to Heal When Grieving the Loss of a Pet

Posted on March 11, 2026March 12, 2026 by Peggy Frezon

Six days after losing our golden retriever, Brooks, I stood in the church lobby after Sunday’s service, and the tears started to flow, right there in front of everyone. Some people stopped to ask me what was wrong, then patted my shoulder and walked on by. It felt like they were thinking, “What’s wrong with you? It’s just a dog.” But I knew my loss was important, and my pain was very real.

God blesses us with animals to share our lives. When you love a pet, you experience a strong bond, and grieving for a lost pet is normal. While it’s not realistic to “just get over” the loss of a pet, there are some ways to help you through the difficult times.

1. Understand it’s okay to grieve

You may feel embarrassed to admit how much you are hurting. People may offer “helpful” suggestions of when and how to grieve. Your pet was a part of your family. He ate with you, played with you, slept with you, maybe even went on vacation with you. It is natural to feel his loss deeply. When we lost our Brooks to cancer, I was shocked at the intensity of my grief, the actual ache in my heart. My husband understood. He said, “It only hurts so much because what you had together was so good.” Allow yourself to grieve those good moments and grieve for your friend, just as you would anyone else who was dear to you.

2. Consider a tribute or memorial

At the end of December every year, our veterinarian holds a special service for all the pets that passed away that year. Luminaries light the driveway. The veterinarian’s waiting room is dark and reverent. One of the vets reads the beautiful children’s book about pet loss, Dog Heaven by Cynthia Rylant. A big screen projects a slide show of the cats and dogs, while pet parents stand up and share remembrances. When we leave, hearts are lighter.

A memorial can be anything that is meaningful to you. Hold a funeral. Read a poem– many pet parents find comfort in a popular poem, The Rainbow Bridge. Light a candle. My children found meaning in writing a message on a balloon and releasing it to heaven. Writing a letter to a dog in heaven helped a young girl who missed her dog (and she got a touching, surprise response, too.).

3. Remember the good times

After one of our dogs passed, I kept focusing on the last months of his life—how he could barely walk, how much pain he’d experienced. I couldn’t get past those sad images. One night my husband got out an old home video of our dog when he was young and healthy. I watched a strong, active yellow pup run through the woods, fetch a stick, and dive off the end of a dock. His life was more than his disease. He’d had a good life. My guilt and sorrow healed that night.

4. Create a meaningful tribute

Making a special tribute helps create a lasting memory. Plant a tree or perennial flowers in your garden. Frame a favorite picture. We framed a collage with a photo, a lock of fur, dog tags, and a paw print. At holiday time, design a special ornament with your dog’s photo to hang on your Christmas tree.

5. Give extra love to your other pets

If you have other pets at home, they may be missing their companion as well. Although animals don’t grieve in exactly the same way as people grieve, your pet may seem sad, lonely or confused. Keep your pet’s routine as normal as possible. Providing extra walks or play time, if able, is always a good idea. Spending time relaxing and snuggling together can help you both.

God cares about animals, just as he cares about all His creation. Are not two sparrows sold for a cent? And yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. (Matthew 10:29) Knowing that your loving Father cares about your pet, you can trust that His plan for your pet is perfect.

5 Ways to Get More Involved with Your Community

Posted on March 11, 2026March 12, 2026 by Abigail Carney

Abigail Carney is the Activities Coordinator at Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging’s Gunning Park Rose Center for Aging Well.

As a busy and often tightly scheduled caregiver, carving out time for community activities is likely not a top priority. You may have taken on a volunteer project or joined a social organization out of a sense of obligation. But have you thought about involving yourself in activities that are actually fun and interesting to you? When you interact with others in ways that stimulate and fulfill you personally, it is not only self-gratifying, it can also boost your health. This in turn can allow you to recharge and help make you a better caregiver.

According to the National Institute on Aging, being involved in community activities can increase social engagement and improve the health of the people who partake in them through increasing overall happiness, lessening symptoms of depression, improving thinking abilities and lowering the risk of certain health conditions, such as dementia.

To help you find community activities that are right for you, consider these suggestions:

1. Know what you’re looking for

Keep online searches focused on specifics. For example:

Teach an acting class for children
Study painting at a local museum
Take a dance class
Read to people at a nursing home
Serve food at a homeless shelter
Work the polls on Election Day
Join a mystery lovers book club at the library

A good place to start is with newspapers and magazines, as well as community bulletin boards, that list volunteer and social engagement opportunities. The following online resources offer additional ideas and information:

2. Plan regular respite time

As a caregiver, your time is already at a premium! Because of this, you should schedule your activity on a regular basis. An evaluation of the National Family Caregiver Support Program showed that caregivers who received 4 or more hours of respite per week reported decreased burden and a higher level of ability to continue their caregiving responsibilities. Respite will help you reset and be the best caregiver you can be to your loved one. It has the added benefit of giving you something to look forward to each week.

3. Think of opportunities for interaction

Placing yourself in situations that allow you to meet and interact with other people is a great way to combat the isolation you may feel as a result of daily caregiving. Socializing with others, developing relationships and receiving support can give you an outlet to unwind.

4. Pick up a new skill or go back to one you loved

It’s easy to get so involved in everyday life that we drop the things we once hoped to learn or accomplish. Now is the time to try something you have always wanted to or return to an activity that you used to love!

5. Enjoy yourself!

Keep in mind when deciding what to do, that it should be something that excites you. It’s okay to test out different activities until you arrive at the right one. There are only so many hours in your busy day, so have a good time!

15 Ways to Form a Positive Reading Habit

Posted on March 11, 2026March 12, 2026 by Holly Lebowitz Rossi

If you are hoping to read more often, you are not alone. Whether it’s a new habit for the New Year or a commitment to learning more about the world, starting positive reading habits is a big item on people’s to-do lists. According to YouGov, 11% of Americans hope to read more in the year 2023. That’s approximately 36 million people!

However, it can be difficult to set aside time and find a quiet place to open a good book, web article, or magazine. Between busy schedules and the allure of binge-watching, starting a reading habit might feel impossible. Luckily, there are simple steps we can take to make reading habits a part of our life.

Why Start Reading Habits?

Benefits of Positive Habits

Positive habits can be a great way to bring more joy and hope into your day-to-day life. They can be done on a monthly, weekly, or even a daily basis, depending on how you include them in your schedule. Positive habits should affect your life in a way that improves it—whether that’s making you happier, healthier, more hopeful, connecting you with others or giving you a sense of purpose. For many people, reading is a way to do this. But how?

Benefits of Reading

There are various benefits to regularly reading. According to Healthline, reading books can reduce stress, help with sleep, improve brain connectivity, and increase vocabulary and comprehension.

Taking the time to read is a good way to slow down in a busy world. It gives us the chance to sit down in a quiet space and take a break from the screen. It lets us feel our emotions and look inwardly to see how we truly feel and react to different stories.

Reading can also take you on journeys to interesting worlds, all without leaving your living room. It can put you in someone else’s shoes, show you different perspectives, and increase your sense of empathy towards others. It can also be a source of comfort. Reading a story that we relate to can help us feel more seen and connected to the world around us.

How to Start Good Reading Habits

1. Put Your Reading Habits on Your Calendar

Finding the time to read is one of the major obstacles people face when they commit to reading more. After a stressful day at work or running errands, you might want to plop in front of the TV or open your phone. Make reading a part of your schedule by adding it into your calendar. Find a time during the day when you have downtime—in the morning while you drink your coffee, during your lunch break, or at night before going to bed. Adding it to your calendar, whether your daily planner or on your phone with an alarm, will remind you to slow down, sit comfortably, and crack open a book.

2. Start Small

If you are committing to reading more with reading habits, there’s no need to jump into an epic novel or a lengthy nonfiction book. Let yourself start small. Pick an easy read, like a short novel, a collection of short stories, or a magazine with short articles. Also start small with the amount of time you spend reading. If you don’t have the time to read for hours, set aside fifteen minutes. If you want to do it for longer to really dive into your book, increase the time as you go. Soon, you’ll be so pulled into a story, you’ll spend more time reading than you imagined possible with your busy schedule.

3. Go Chapter by Chapter

Another way to stick with a reading habit when you don’t have much time is to take your book chapter by chapter. Commit to reading one chapter a day, or even one chapter a week if you are especially busy. Set a schedule that makes sense for you. Don’t overdo it, or you run the risk of burning yourself out or stopping altogether. Remember that reading is not a race. The joy and knowledge you get from it is for you to have at whatever pace works for you. Habits stick when you focus less on doing them quickly and more on doing them consistently.

4. Make a Reading Spot

Who doesn’t love a reading nook—a quiet, cozy space where you can snuggle up and enjoy a good book. Make a reading spot for yourself in your home. It can be in your living room, a corner of your bedroom, in the kitchen, or outside on your porch. Here are a few characteristics that make for a great reading spot:

Make sure the spot is filled with light so you can read easily
Add pillows and blankets to make it more comfortable
Personalize the spot with your favorite scented candle, flowers, artwork, shelves of books, etc.

Do whatever you want to the spot that brings you joy so you are excited to return and continue your reading habit.

5. Use a Reading Habits Tracker

A reading habit tracker is a tool that helps you keep track of the books you’ve read, plan to read, and are currently reading. It’s a great way to figure out your reading goals and catalogue your accomplishments. If your goal is to read a certain number of books, add them to the habit tracker and mark them complete as you go. There are various digital habit trackers you can use, such as websites like Libib and BookSloth, or apps like Goodreads and Bookly. You can also make your own reading habit tracker in a spreadsheet or a journal.

6. Have Multiple Reading Options

Don’t be afraid to read more than one thing at a time. The same book might not capture your interest every day, and that’s okay. Include a different kind of book or magazine in your mix, so you have something else to grab during your reading time. Just like bibliophile Rory Gilmore, from the show Gilmore Girls. As she said in one episode: “Sometimes when I’m on the bus, I’ll pull out a biography and think to myself, ‘Well, I don’t really feel like reading about a person’s life right now.’ Then I’ll switch to the novel. And then sometimes when I’m not into the novel, I’ll switch back.”

7. Use Your Local Library

One of the drawbacks of taking up a reading habit is how expensive it can get. Multiple trips to the bookstore or online shops can get pricey. Sometimes you need to read the first few chapters of a story to see if it’s something you want to continue, which is hard to do in a bookstore aisle or online. Luckily, libraries are filled with books, eBooks, audiobooks and magazines you can check out for free. Now you can sample books to your heart’s content until you find one you want to commit to. You can even use the app Libby to check out eBooks and audiobooks and track them as you read. All you need is a library card!

8. Mix Things Up with a New Genre

If you are used to reading one kind of book, pick out a book in a genre you don’t usually read. For example, if you are a lover of fiction and novels, think about what your favorites have in common. A particular time in history, region of the world or type of character may emerge as a theme. That can send you down a glorious rabbit hole of non-fiction books that will illuminate your understanding of times, places and people who already live in your imagination.

9. Add a Treat to Your Reading Habits

If you are having trouble motivating yourself to stick to your reading habits, try doing something to treat yourself during your reading time. Many people enjoy a relaxing cup of tea as they read. Some like to pop a bag of popcorn and munch as they read, just like at the movies. Maybe you have a sweet tooth and want to nibble on some chocolate as you turn the pages. Just be sure to keep your hands clean so you can avoid smudges.

10. Try Habit Stacking

Habit stacking is adding a new habit onto an already existing habit, such as making a daily to-do list while you drink your coffee or doing slow breathing exercises while getting ready for bed. If you are having trouble adding reading habits into your routine, make them a part of your current habits. Think about something you do on a daily or weekly basis that you could also read during. Some examples include:

Listen to an audiobook during your morning commute
Read a magazine while you wait for your laundry to dry
Listen to an audio book while you wait for dinner to finish cooking
When you lay in bed before going to sleep, put down your phone and curl up with a good book

11. Give Old Favorites a Re-Read

There is a particular kind of pleasure that comes with easing open a well-worn book, flipping through pages you have thumbed before, maybe multiple times. Re-reading favorite books can do more than bring you back into beloved worlds and stories—it can bring you back to the time in your life when you last met those characters. You’re left with a rich reflection on who you were, who you are and where you turn for meaning and inspiration. Re-reading a favorite a great way to keep yourself committed to your reading habits when you aren’t feeling up for anything new.

12. Let Your Finished Book Help Choose the Next Book

If you finish a book, don’t lose the momentum in your reading habits. After you’ve digested what you’ve read, be sure to pick out something new to read soon. You can use your previous book to pick the next book on your list. If the book is in a series, go to the next one. If you liked the author you read, look up what else they’ve written. If there was a subject in the previous book that intrigued you, research a good book to read about it. You can also make a list of books you hope to read beforehand, so you always know what to pick up next.

13. Join a Book Club

Book clubs are positive on so many levels, not least of which is that they open your mind to books you might not otherwise consider. Many neighborhoods, towns and cities have book clubs you can find online and join. Even if you don’t belong to one, try to think about your reading choices in a communal way. Ask friends what they are reading and go with any recommendations that intrigue you. Maybe even consider starting your own book club with them.

14. Share Your Reading Habits Journey

Nothing can make you commit to a habit more than announcing you are going to do it. Wanting your friends and family to see you successfully complete a goal can be great motivation. Tell people in your life that you are starting a reading habit. You can do this in person or on social media. Keep people updated on how your habit is going by talking about the books you’ve read, asking for recommendations, or making posts about how your reading habits are progressing.

15. Give Yourself Permission to Move On

Sometimes you just can’t get through a book—and that’s okay. Just like living positively means acknowledging when it’s time to let go of something that isn’t serving you well, reading positively means giving yourself permission to close a book that isn’t keeping you interested or inspired. There are infinite choices to turn to instead, after all. The positive pleasure of reading is indeed un-ending.

Inspiring Quotes About Reading Habits

Find inspiration by reading these quotes about reading habits, some of them from great writers and novelists. Write a favorite at the time of your reading list to keep you motivated. Put one on a sticky note in your reading spot so you always remember the joy that you can find in reading.

“The habit of reading is the only one I know in which there is no alloy. It lasts when all other pleasures fade.” —Anthony Trollope, novelist
“Read every day and learn from what you read.” —Octavia Butler, writer
“To acquire the habit of reading is to construct for yourself a refuge from almost all of the miseries of life.” —W. Somerset Maugham, writer
“A fondness for reading, properly directed, must be an education in itself.” —Jane Austen, novelist
“Any book that helps a child to form a habit of reading, to make reading one of his needs, is good for him.” —Maya Angelou, memoirist
“That’s what I love about reading: one tiny thing will interest you in a book, and that tiny thing will lead you to another book, and another bit there will lead you onto a third book. It’s geometrically progressive — all with no end in sight, and for no other reason than sheer enjoyment.” —Mary Ann Shaffer, writer and librarian
“I can’t imagine a man really enjoying a book and reading it only once.” —C.S. Lewis, writer
“The greatest luxury I know is sitting up reading in bed.” —Eleanor Roosevelt, former First Lady and diplomat
“You think your pain and your heartbreak are unprecedented in the history of the world, but then you read.” —James Baldwin, writer
“Children are made readers on the laps of their parents.” —Emilie Buchwald, editor and teacher
“My favorite books are the ones that make me smile for hours after reading them.” —Sarah Addison Allen, author
“It is not true that we have only one life to live; if we can read, we can live as many more lives and as many kinds of lives as we wish.” —S.I. Hayakawa, former U.S. Senator and professor

READ MORE ABOUT POSITIVE HABITS:

5 Ways to Find Spiritual Satisfaction

Posted on March 11, 2026March 12, 2026 by Edward Grinnan

Satisfaction: the fulfillment of one’s wishes, expectations or needs

“Satisfaction” by the Rolling Stones is sometimes cited as the greatest rock song ever. I might be inclined to agree with that, though the song is not actually one of my favorite Stones tunes. But it got me thinking about the concept and state of spiritual satisfaction. It’s more than just settling for half a loaf.

In the song, Mick Jagger isn’t looking for the meaning of life or a spiritual truth, nor is he seeking the perfect love or a moment of clarity; he’s just looking for satisfaction, which he can’t seem to find in his travels around the world when he’s “doin’ this and…I’m signin’ that.” But what does it mean to be satisfied? I think it’s a misunderstood, under-appreciated condition and a habit to be cultivated.

1) Check Your Blessings

“God never gives you more than you can handle,” goes the claim. I would include blessings in that category. I have yet to win the lottery, and I probably never will. Still, when I look at my life, I am given what I need at every turn. My desires are met, not always in abundance but always to satisfaction. God knows our needs better than we do. When I accept His will for me, I find satisfaction.

2) Keep It Simple

This is a phrase I learned in 12-step (often shortened to KISS—Keep It Simple, Stupid) and a concept I have admittedly yet to completely master. Simplicity begets satisfaction. The simpler my desires, the simpler my prayers, the more likely I am to be satisfied. Too often I just can’t stop myself from asking for too much. How happy do I think I need to be? In the end, God doesn’t disappoint me, I do. Keeping it simple keeps it real and enhances gratitude.

3) Look for Hidden Gifts

We all have them—the job we never thought we’d love, the friend we never thought we’d make, the place we never thought we’d call home. These are some of my greatest satisfactions. Count yours.

4) Compare Not

Some forms of social media seem designed to wreck our self-esteem. Who hasn’t given in to comparing themselves to others who are presumably living better lives? An old friend wins an award, and I ask why it wasn’t I who won the prize when I should be celebrating her achievement. I was put on the path I’m on for a reason. Comparisons are senseless when I question God’s direction for me by defining it against others. Does a loving God actually make that comparison? I definitely can’t get no satisfaction that way.

5) Love, the Ultimate Satisfaction

Nothing satisfies our souls more than love—love of God, love of family, love of country, love of self. It is both the simplest and greatest of all satisfactions. I look at the love that runs through my life like a divine current, and I am humbled by its power and immensely satisfied by its fullness.

Spiritual satisfaction is a powerful habit of accepting what God has for us. It grants a perspective on His plan for my life and my embrace of that plan.

5 Ways to Fight Back Against Caregiver Loneliness

Posted on March 11, 2026March 12, 2026 by Ashley Lateef

This article is based on information provided by Philips Lifeline.

Feeling isolated from others can come with the territory when you are a caregiver. You can be especially vulnerable if family members or friends are not able to give you much support, either because they live far away or are too busy with their own commitments. Maybe you have no family at all. The particular demands of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia can easily lead to loneliness. On top of this, regular tasks like taking your loved one to doctor’s appointments, preparing meals and cleaning can make it difficult for you to keep up with activities and friends you enjoy.

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Yet staying in touch with others is enormously important to your emotional and physical health. Not only does it matter to your overall well-being, it also enables you to be a better caregiver. Remember, you are not alone in this situation, and there are many resources to help!

Mental and Physical Health Effects of Loneliness

Caregiver isolation and loneliness can take a serious toll on your mental and physical health.

These feelings can jump-start thoughts and behaviors that exacerbate the emotional toll of caregiving. If you are experiencing these emotions, you are more prone to depression, your cognitive abilities can decline, and you can become detached from day-to-day life.

Caregivers often skip exercise and social interaction, both of which are good for body and soul. They get less sleep, eat less healthily, are prone to substance abuse and are more stressed. Studies show that people who are chronically lonely have significantly higher incidence of heart disease, are more likely to have metastatic cancer, and are at an increased risk of stroke and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. They are also more likely to have compromised autoimmune systems and lower antiviral response, and to experience inflammation.

The potential ramifications are serious: A study presented at the 125th Annual Convention of the American Psychological Association in 2017 found that social isolation, loneliness or living alone have “a significant and equal effect on the risk of premature death, one that was equal to or exceeded the effect of other well-accepted risk factors such as obesity.”

Ways to Lessen Caregiver Loneliness

The good news is that you don’t have to suffer through these feelings. Following are some strategies to combat caregiver isolation, loneliness and depression:

Participate in a caregiver support group. Meeting regularly with others who face similar challenges reminds us we’re not alone. Support groups, many of which meet online, can be particularly helpful if our friends or family members don’t understand our role in caring for an aging parent or another loved one. It’s possible to form new, more empathetic friendships in these groups, which strengthens our social networks.

Accept a helping hand. You might often feel like you have to do it all yourself, and when you’ve completed your priority tasks for the day, you tend to cancel activities like socializing, exercising or engaging in your favorite hobbies. That only leads to further isolation. If your family members can’t take over some tasks so you have time for other things, look to respite care and home visitation services to provide direct support.

Talk to a counselor. Sometimes you may need more support than a group can provide, especially if you’re experiencing depression or anxiety. Professional therapists are excellent resources who can help you stave off loneliness and better manage your caregiving role.

Build and maintain social connections. A strong social network can help you to feel more resilient, so little setbacks don’t have such a big impact. You may find it easier to work through even bigger issues like an illness or a fall when you have others to talk to, and strong connections can release emotional anxiety. Even if you can’t meet face-to-face with people, you can establish regular video chats to see and talk with those who are important to you.

The added value of exercise. Even a short daily walk can have a positive impact on your health. You can also make use of great apps that remind you to move throughout the day in short spurts, like doing 30 wall push-ups or 10 deep breaths. Physical activity is a terrific energy, stamina and mental health booster. Studies show that even an hour of activity a week can lower the incidence of depression. Even though dealing with loneliness is not uncommon for caregivers, it’s important to recognize that these feelings of isolation do not have to be permanent. Understanding more about loneliness and connecting with the help and resources you need will empower you to fight back against loneliness and remain emotionally and physically healthy.

Don’t disregard professional medical advice, or delay seeking it, because of what you read here. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional consultation, diagnosis or treatment; it is provided “as is” without any representations or warranties, express or implied. Always consult a healthcare provider if you have specific questions about any medical matter, and seek professional attention immediately if you think you or someone in your care may be suffering from a healthcare condition.

5 Ways to Declutter Your Home with Joy

Posted on March 11, 2026March 12, 2026 by Roberta Messner

Most of us have been there. We suddenly discover we have more stuff than space, or that our treasures don’t seem to enjoy the spotlight like they once did. I found myself in that predicament recently, when props I no longer needed for my home-styling business overtook every spare inch of my home. My situation may be a little different than yours, but the discoveries I made will apply to just about any decluttering effort. Here’s what I learned:

Start with the stuff in containers. Any true, long-lasting organization begins from within. At the start of my own effort, I headed to Wal-Mart where I purchased five of their biggest plastic storage containers and three packs of colored file folders. That first morning, when I was filling one of the tubs with decorative smalls—pictures, an antique coffee grinder, knickknacks, and kitchenalia—my sister Rebekkah appeared on the scene. “You’re not solving anything, Roberta,” she challenged with a chuckle. “You’re just rearranging the junk. And did I mention, you may have a lamp fetish?” It was sad, but true.

Ask yourself tough questions. William Morris, the textile designer associated with the British Arts and Crafts Movement, once advised: “Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.” When deciding what to keep or part with, ask yourself: Is it beautiful? Is it useful? Is it extra-special to me? For if you decide to keep and display everything, nothing seems special.

Consider rotating treasures. The Japanese do this to great effect. Put your rabbit display on a table top during spring, the chickens in the summer months, and your quilts during the colder days of the year. Store a limited amount of seasonal objects in a closet or trunk.

Create three areas: keep, toss, and donate or sell. I found this to be the hardest part of the process. In fact, I could only tackle it for a couple of hours a day, before becoming emotionally and sometimes physically exhausted. Delivering a few donation bags or boxes, whether to a Goodwill, Habitat for Humanity or a church clothing closet, after every session really helped me keep going. That way, I could actually visualize my progress. You might also want to snap pictures to remind yourself of how far you have travelled.

Ask God for help. Some of my objects were antiques and vintage items, and some of these have recently depreciated in monetary value. That’s when an inner accusatory voice would taunt: “You paid good money for this, Roberta.” Through prayer, I learned there are other costs besides fiscal ones. Not being able to fully experience your home—your center and respite from a world that isn’t always kind—is an important one. God really helped me on this consideration. I felt Him leading me to take things slowly and trust the outcome. Over the course of a few weeks of research, I found that antique textiles and certain collectibles had still maintained their value. These I sold to specialized antiques dealers directly. I cosigned the furnishings that still had decorative worth to a new upscale shop in my area.

Then it was time for even more difficult decisions. Do I take a significant loss on some purchases or find a good home for them?

An example of this was a circa 1890’s grandfather clock I no longer had room for (old clocks have really taken a downturn). About that time, I ran onto a passage in a magazine: “In the end, only three things matter: How much you loved, how gently you lived, and how gracefully you let go of the things not meant for you.” So when my mother’s dear hospice nurse mentioned that she had always wanted an old grandfather clock, I felt a nudge from heaven and I gifted it to her. It felt absolutely wonderful.

In the end, decluttering boiled down to what I actually needed to live efficiently and with great joy. Although I feared regret (“I have to keep this—my mother loved it”) and wastefulness (“Waste not, want not,” my Mamaw always said, and admittedly, I’d made some buying mistakes), the end result was a freeing one. Old batteries, outdated meds, dried-out cosmetics, and other objects that had outlived their usefulness no longer filled my cabinets and drawers. Yesterday’s décor props don’t take down my look these days. And my surplus books are enriching others’ lives now.

Above all, I have learned that the state of our homes affects the state of our lives. I planned to reward myself with a new outfit once the job was completed. But I don’t have to. Finally enjoying my home to its fullest, and living a more aware life, is the best reward of all.

5 Ways to Beat the Holiday Blues

Posted on March 11, 2026March 12, 2026 by Pablo Diaz

The holidays are supposed to be the happiest time of the year. Yet for many, they are not. Personal challenges, hardship, grief, depression, anxiety and loneliness may make it difficult to be positive during times of cheer. This is true even for people of faith who know the spiritual reasons for the season.

A few reasons people experience holiday blues:

Loss of a spouse
Being away on business or in the military service
Family illness
Financial pressure when buying gifts
Feeling overwhelmed by too many holiday gatherings

What causes anxiety and sadness varies from person to person, but there are things we can all do to get through these nasty blues:

1) Connect with others in your church, community and work place. By taking a step towards seeking social support, you can avoid feeling isolated.

2) Worship with others to refocus on the true meaning of Christmas. Let the music and message draw you closer to the Savior. When our heart is filled with His presence, it makes a difference.

3) Help someone in need. Volunteer to wrap gifts, visit the sick or serve at a soup kitchen. When we do small things with great love, our hearts are filled with joy. Also, staying busy is a great remedy for a troubled heart.

4) Make gifts instead of buying them; you can use your skills and manage your financial resources while fulfilling the act of giving.

5) Talk with a counselor, pastor or friend about how you feel. Sharing our pain will not eliminate it, but can validate our emotions. And remember to include God in the conversation. He is always there to listen.

Our faith is our greatest resource. Give yourself the gift of working through your holiday blues.

Lord, turn our sadness into joy; help us to take the necessary steps to get through the challenges of the holiday season.

5 Ways to Be a Better Listener

Posted on March 11, 2026March 12, 2026 by The Editors

Diane Stark was right to worry about her widowed mother-in-law. Research shows that social isolation takes a toll on health, well-being and quality of life, especially as we get older. That’s why the Good Samaritan Society developed Kin Ministry, an innovative program that coordinates in-person, phone and video-chat connections between isolated seniors and volunteers from their faith community. Even though “technology can be an important part of the solution for loneliness,” says Denice Dengler, Kin Ministry’s manager, “people still want and need human connection.” Active listening is the key, according to Dengler and Barb Schwery, executive director of BeFriender Ministry, which trains the volunteers. Here are their tips for becoming a better, more active listener:

Do some self-reflection. We each have our own communication style, Schwery says. How have your life experiences shaped how you listen and communicate? What were things like in your family growing up? What is your role in life now? Also, consider how day-to-day occurrences affect your interactions. If someone cuts you off in traffic, say, how might that affect your conversations with colleagues later that day?

Meet the other person where they are. “If you visit someone who’s grieving, for example, they might not want to talk about it at first,” Schwery says. “Maybe they want to talk about gardening instead. Letting them lead the conversation builds trust.” They’ll talk about what’s really on their minds when they’re ready to.

Respond with understanding. In conversations, “people typically think, ‘What do I need to say next?’ rather than ‘How do I make sure I understood?’” Schwery notes. To better understand someone’s story from their perspective, restate what you think you heard. For example: “Sounds like you really miss your daughter.”

Think caring, not curing. You’re not there to teach or give advice. “Just be a listening presence,” Dengler says. Remind yourself, “I don’t have to have all the answers. It’s not up to me to fix this. I’m going in to learn.” Asking open-ended questions gives the other person the opportunity to choose how to respond.

Be nonjudgmental. It’s healing to talk about your experiences, thoughts and feelings without being judged or criticized. Provide a safe space for someone to do that. “Listen in the way you would like to be listened to,” Schwery says.

Visit good-sam.com/guideposts to learn more about Kin Ministry and other programs supported by the Good Samaritan Foundation.

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