After leaving the White House, President Jimmy Carter could have chosen a quiet retirement. But instead, he rolled up his sleeves—literally—and dedicated the next chapter of his life to serving others in a deeply personal and hands-on way.
When I think about his work with Habitat for Humanity, I’m reminded of how caregiving often calls us to action in the same way. It’s about stepping up, no matter how big or small the task, and giving with your whole heart. That’s exactly what Carter did.
Habitat for Humanity became a natural extension of his values: faith, humility, and service. For decades, President Carter and his wife Rosalynn worked tirelessly to build and restore homes, traveling across the U.S. and even internationally. Together, they helped provide safe and affordable housing to those in need, putting their beliefs into action.
I remember watching news segments showing President Jimmy Carter, hammer in hand, wearing a hard hat and flashing his warm, familiar smile. He wasn’t just a figurehead for the organization—he was actively on the ground, building homes and forging connections.
President Carter’s involvement also helped bring global attention to the housing crisis. Thanks to his efforts, Habitat for Humanity became a household name, inspiring countless volunteers and donors to join the cause.
As caregivers, many of us know the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment. President Carter’s work reminds us that the spaces we live in can deeply affect our well-being. His dedication to helping others find a place to call home reflects the same compassion we strive to bring into the lives of our loved ones.
Next, we’ll explore the incredible partnership President Jimmy Carter and Rosalynn shared, particularly their work as advocates for caregiving. Their commitment to each other and to caregiving is an inspiration for us all.Join me for the next blog in the Memories and Milestones of President Jimmy Carter series as we celebrate his advocacy for caregiving alongside Rosalynn Carter.
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Caregiving can be a roller coaster of ups and downs. The information that you will receive from The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Specials Newsletter will support you as a caregiver. Remember…
1. YOU ARE NOT ALONE: The problems you face as a caregiver are experienced by other caregivers. Knowing that you’re not alone can be comforting.
2. Tools and Resources: Find caregiver stress management tools and gain perspective from other caregiver’s experiences.
3. LEARN TO: Ask for help, accept help when it is offered, and acknowledge yourself on this caregiving journey. Hear from experts on how to balance caregiving responsibilities by taking care of your needs and involving others to help manage the natural stress and isolation of being a caregiver.
The world has lost a great president, a man of faith, a father, a husband, a humanitarian, and so much more. President Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, passed away peacefully after a long and courageous journey in hospice care.
As we reflect on his remarkable life, I can’t help but think of Frank Sinatra’s famous song, “I Did It My Way.” President Jimmy Carter truly did it his way—with humility, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to serving others.
President Carter’s decision to enter hospice care in February 2023 demonstrated the grace and acceptance that defined his life. For over a year, he remained surrounded by love and care, showing us the power of hospice to create meaningful moments even in life’s final chapter.
As caregivers, we know the immense challenges and rewards of supporting loved ones during this time. President Carter’s journey reminds us that with the right care and compassion, these moments can become beautiful memories.
This is the first in a series of reflections on President Jimmy Carter’s incredible legacy. Over the next two weeks, we’ll explore the milestones and memories that defined his life—from his presidency to his humanitarian work, and his unwavering partnership with his wife Rosalynn Carter.
Let’s honor his legacy by drawing lessons from his remarkable journey—both as a leader and as a man who faced aging and end-of-life with dignity. Join me for the next blog of the Memories and Milestones of President Jimmy Carter series, where I’ll explore President Jimmy Carter’s impactful presidency and the initiatives he championed for a brighter future.
Subscribe to The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Newsletter!
Caregiving can be a roller coaster of ups and downs. The information that you will receive from The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Specials Newsletter will support you as a caregiver. Remember…
1. YOU ARE NOT ALONE: The problems you face as a caregiver are experienced by other caregivers. Knowing that you’re not alone can be comforting.
2. Tools and Resources: Find caregiver stress management tools and gain perspective from other caregiver’s experiences.
3. LEARN TO: Ask for help, accept help when it is offered, and acknowledge yourself on this caregiving journey. Hear from experts on how to balance caregiving responsibilities by taking care of your needs and involving others to help manage the natural stress and isolation of being a caregiver.
Losing a loved one is an experience that can leave caregivers feeling lost, overwhelmed, and unsure of where to turn. As caregivers, you’ve dedicated countless hours, love, and energy to caring for your family member, and when they pass away, that absence creates a void that can be hard to fill. The emotional toll of losing someone so dear is something you don’t have to navigate alone, especially when hospice care is there to provide compassionate grief counseling and support.
Hospice Grief Counseling: A Gift of Healing
What many caregivers may not know is that hospice care offers free grief counseling for up to one year after the loss of a loved one. Yes, you can access this support at no cost, and it’s specifically designed to help you process the complicated emotions and struggles that come with grief. This service is available to anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one, regardless of whether or not your loved one was in hospice care at the time of death.
Hospice grief counseling offers a variety of services to help you cope with the loss:
Individual counseling: One-on-one sessions with trained professionals who can help you understand your grief and find ways to manage it.
Support groups: Grief support groups provide a space for you to connect with others who are going through similar experiences, fostering community and solidarity.
Phone consultations and virtual options: Many hospice services offer remote counseling to ensure you have access to support, no matter where you are.
Follow-up care: Hospice organizations often check in periodically to ensure that you continue to receive emotional support as you navigate the stages of grief.
This counseling isn’t just about finding comfort during the immediate aftermath of a loss; it’s designed to support you as you heal over time. Hospice care recognizes that grief is not a short-term journey, and they offer support for up to a year to give you the space and time you need to heal.
Why Hospice Grief Counseling Is Vital for Caregivers
The grieving process is complex and deeply personal. As a caregiver, you’ve been emotionally invested in your loved one’s life and care, which makes the loss even harder to process. Hospice grief counseling is specifically tailored to meet the needs of caregivers, offering tools to help you cope, reflect, and heal.
Here are a few reasons why accessing hospice grief counseling is so important:
A safe space for expression: Grief can feel isolating, especially if you’re unable to share your emotions with others. Grief counseling gives you a safe space to express how you feel without judgment.
Understanding your grief: Grief manifests in many forms—sadness, anger, guilt, confusion. Counseling helps you make sense of these emotions and teaches you how to deal with them in healthy ways.
Guided support: A grief counselor can help guide you through difficult emotions, offering tools to help you manage and eventually move through your grief.
Continued care: With hospice grief counseling available for up to a year, you don’t have to face your grief alone. The support extends beyond the immediate period following the loss, offering you a consistent source of care.
How to Access Grief Counseling Services Through Hospice
To access grief counseling, all you have to do is reach out to your local hospice care provider. Even if your loved one did not pass while in hospice care, many hospices still offer free grief support for family members and caregivers.
Here’s what you can do:
Contact your local hospice: Call or visit their website to inquire about grief counseling services available to you.
Ask about their offerings: Some hospices offer individual counseling, group therapy, and virtual support, so ask about the services that are available in your area.
Seek guidance: If you’re unsure about which option is best for you, hospice counselors can help direct you to the right services based on your needs.
As a caregiver, you’ve dedicated your heart and soul to the well-being of your loved one, and the loss you’re experiencing now is one that should not be faced alone. Reaching out for grief counseling is an important step toward healing, and hospice counseling services can offer the support you need to navigate this difficult time. Take advantage of the free grief counseling offered by your local hospice and don’t hesitate to reach out for support.
Subscribe to The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Newsletter!
Caregiving can be a roller coaster of ups and downs. The information that you will receive from The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Specials Newsletter will support you as a caregiver. Remember…
1. YOU ARE NOT ALONE: The problems you face as a caregiver are experienced by other caregivers. Knowing that you’re not alone can be comforting.
2. Tools and Resources: Find caregiver stress management tools and gain perspective from other caregiver’s experiences.
3. LEARN TO: Ask for help, accept help when it is offered, and acknowledge yourself on this caregiving journey. Hear from experts on how to balance caregiving responsibilities by taking care of your needs and involving others to help manage the natural stress and isolation of being a caregiver.
The holidays are meant to be a time of joy, family, and celebration—but for caregivers who have recently lost a loved one, the season can bring a mix of emotions that make it feel anything but festive. If this is your first holiday season without your family member, you may be feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or simply unsure how to move forward. I understand because, I just recently lost my mom and as caregivers, we give so much of ourselves, and losing someone we care for can leave a space that feels impossible to fill.
But even in the midst of grief, there are ways to reclaim moments of peace, love, and joy. It’s okay to acknowledge your pain and sadness while also finding ways to nurture yourself this holiday season. In this updated guide, I want to share some practical tips to help you navigate the holiday season with more peace, even if your heart is heavy.
If you’re looking for additional support and tips, I encourage you to revisit my earlier post “Take Back Your Joy This Holiday Season After Losing Your Loved One”. It provides valuable insights into emotional preparation, creating new traditions, and seeking support, which are the first steps in your journey to healing.
Now, let’s dive into some new strategies for caregivers during the holiday season.
1. Acknowledge Your Emotions—All of Them
First and foremost, it’s okay not to be okay this holiday season. You may feel sadness, frustration, even guilt, and that’s all part of the healing process. Caregiving often means putting others first, but now it’s your turn to care for yourself. Don’t push down your emotions—recognize and honor them. It may help to journal your thoughts, talk to a trusted friend, or simply allow yourself quiet time to reflect.
Taking a moment to pause and reflect on how you’re feeling will help you understand your needs in this vulnerable time. Let go of the pressure to be happy for others—your grief is valid, and allowing yourself space to grieve will actually help you heal.
2. Set Boundaries with Holiday Expectations
The holiday season often comes with high expectations, from hosting dinners to buying the perfect gift. If you’re not up for it this year, say no. This doesn’t make you any less of a caregiver or a loving family member. Setting boundaries is not about being selfish; it’s about being self-aware and compassionate with yourself. If social events or family gatherings feel overwhelming, let your loved ones know what you’re comfortable with, or give yourself permission to skip them altogether.
Remember: You are in control of what you choose to engage with this season.
3. Create Space for Memory and Connection
If you’re grieving the loss of a loved one, it can feel as if the holiday spirit is gone forever. Instead of resisting the feelings of loss, consider creating a meaningful way to connect with your loved one’s memory.
Light a candle in their honor during meals or gatherings.
Write a letter to your loved one, sharing your thoughts and what you miss most about them.
Look through photos or create a small memory shrine where you can reflect on the beautiful moments you shared.
These acts can create a sense of closeness, even if your loved one is no longer physically with you. The holidays don’t have to be just about what’s in front of you—they can also be about remembering and cherishing what was.
4. Volunteer and Give Back
Volunteering can be an incredibly healing way to spend your time during the holidays. It shifts your focus from your own grief to offering support and compassion to others. Whether it’s serving meals at a local shelter or organizing a toy drive, giving back in the spirit of your loved one’s legacy can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
If you’re not up to a big commitment, consider donating in small ways. Maybe you can donate clothing, non-perishable food, or toiletries to a local cause that was close to your loved one’s heart.
5. Embrace New Holiday Traditions
Though the thought of maintaining old traditions may be comforting, sometimes we need to adapt and find new ways to enjoy the holiday season. Consider starting a new tradition that reflects where you are right now. For example:
A Quiet Holiday: Instead of hosting a big dinner, opt for a peaceful day of self-care—think of a cozy movie marathon, taking a long walk, or visiting a park that brings you peace.
A Gratitude Jar: Encourage your family to write down things they are grateful for on slips of paper and place them in a jar throughout the season. This can be a reflective and positive way to acknowledge what’s good, even when everything feels hard.
New traditions help remind you that while things have changed, there are still ways to create joy and meaning moving forward.
6. Seek Support—You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
Don’t forget, you don’t have to carry this burden alone. Seeking support from family, friends, or a professional can ease your emotional load. Consider joining a grief support group where you can share your experiences and learn coping strategies from others who are going through similar challenges. There are also online communities where you can find solace without leaving your home.
If you’re not ready for a group setting, a counselor or therapist can offer personalized support. Don’t hesitate to lean on people who genuinely care about your well-being.
7. Take Care of Yourself Physically
Grief can take a toll on your physical health as much as it does on your emotional state. Make sure you’re eating regularly, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest. Exercise, even in small doses, can do wonders for relieving stress and lifting your mood.
It’s okay to take breaks and nurture your body during this time. Be mindful of your needs—both mental and physical—and let those be a priority.
8. Plan for Future Holidays—One Step at a Time
While you’re focusing on getting through this holiday season, remember it’s also okay to plan for the future. The holidays will likely feel different next year, and creating small steps toward how you want to experience them can help ease anxiety. For example, you may decide that you want to travel, or perhaps you want to invite more people over for a festive meal. Whatever your vision is, take it one step at a time.
The holiday season after losing a loved one is undoubtedly difficult, but with intention and self-compassion, it is possible to find moments of peace and joy, even in the hardest of times. Whether you’re taking it slow or creating new rituals, your journey is your own, and there’s no right or wrong way to experience it.
Remember, grief is a process that doesn’t have a timetable. If you need to take a step back, give yourself permission to do so. You are not alone—there is support out there, and there are many ways to heal.
For more tips on navigating this season, check out my previous blog post “Take Back Your Joy This Holiday Season After Losing Your Loved One”. I’m here to support you through this journey, and together we can embrace the holidays in a way that honors both your grief and your healing.
Take care of you, because you matter.
Subscribe to The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Newsletter!
Caregiving can be a roller coaster of ups and downs. The information that you will receive from The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Specials Newsletter will support you as a caregiver. Remember…
1. YOU ARE NOT ALONE: The problems you face as a caregiver are experienced by other caregivers. Knowing that you’re not alone can be comforting.
2. Tools and Resources: Find caregiver stress management tools and gain perspective from other caregiver’s experiences.
3. LEARN TO: Ask for help, accept help when it is offered, and acknowledge yourself on this caregiving journey. Hear from experts on how to balance caregiving responsibilities by taking care of your needs and involving others to help manage the natural stress and isolation of being a caregiver.
I find it truly inspiring that Jimmy Carter, a man who has dedicated his life to service and humanity, celebrated his 100th birthday on October 1st, 2024. As a caregiver, I’ve always admired the values he and Rosalynn Carter embody—compassion, commitment, and resilience. Their lives remind me of why I do what I do and the importance of supporting those who give so much of themselves to others.
A Century of Impact
Jimmy Carter’s journey, from his humble beginnings in Plains, Georgia, to the presidency and beyond, is a story of dedication to making the world better. As president, Carter didn’t just lead—he innovated. His creation of the Department of Energy demonstrated his foresight in addressing complex issues like energy independence and environmental sustainability, both of which are so critical to our future.
What stands out to me the most is how he empowered Rosalynn Carter as a public figure. He recognized her strength and voice, encouraging her to step into leadership in ways that were groundbreaking for First Ladies. It’s a reminder that caregiving, whether for a family member, a community, or a country, is often best done in partnership, with mutual respect and shared vision.
Even now, as Jimmy Carter receives hospice care, his spirit and legacy continue to inspire caregivers like me to approach our roles with hope and perseverance.
The Rosalynn Carter Institute: Supporting Caregivers
As someone who understands the challenges of caregiving, I’m deeply grateful for the work of the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving (RCI). Founded in 1987, the RCI offers support and resources that have been lifelines for caregivers like me. Whether it’s through their educational programs, research, or initiatives like Operation Family Caregiver for military families, their mission resonates deeply with me.
Caring for others often feels like navigating uncharted territory, and the RCI provides the tools and support to make that journey a little smoother. Rosalynn Carter’s leadership in this area is a testament to the same values of service and compassion that defined her husband’s presidency.
What the Carters Have Taught Me
Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter’s lives remind me to recommit to the principles that make caregiving not just a responsibility, but a calling:
Service: Whether I’m helping a loved one or advocating for caregivers, service is at the heart of everything I do.
Self-Care: The Carters taught me that taking care of myself isn’t selfish—it’s essential. It’s what gives me the strength to care for others.
Community: I’ve learned the power of leaning on others. Sharing my journey with fellow caregivers has been a source of incredible strength and encouragement.
Advocacy: The Carters inspire me to use my voice to push for policies and programs that make caregiving more sustainable for all of us.
Lifelong Learning: Every day brings new challenges, and I’m committed to learning as much as I can to meet them head-on.
As I reflect on Jimmy Carter’s 100th birthday, I’m reminded that even the smallest acts of service can create ripples of change. His legacy fuels my passion for caregiving and reminds me why this work matters so much.
Thank you for letting me share this reflection with you. Let’s honor the Carters by continuing to live their values in our daily lives.
Subscribe to The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Newsletter!
Caregiving can be a roller coaster of ups and downs. The information that you will receive from The Caregiver Cafe Weekly Specials Newsletter will support you as a caregiver. Remember…
1. YOU ARE NOT ALONE: The problems you face as a caregiver are experienced by other caregivers. Knowing that you’re not alone can be comforting.
2. Tools and Resources: Find caregiver stress management tools and gain perspective from other caregiver’s experiences.
3. LEARN TO: Ask for help, accept help when it is offered, and acknowledge yourself on this caregiving journey. Hear from experts on how to balance caregiving responsibilities by taking care of your needs and involving others to help manage the natural stress and isolation of being a caregiver.
The Caregiver Cafe 