Table of Contents
Foreword: Opening the Door xi
Prologue xv
Introduction 1
Chapter 1 A Closer Look at Caretaking 13
Chapter 2 Family and Cultural Messages and Expectations about Caregiving 31
Chapter 3 Balance and Boundaries 55
Chapter 4 The Circle of Care 73
Chapter 5 Cultivating Compassion 91
Chapter 6 Joys, Challenges, and the Importance of Caring for Ourselves as We Care for Others 113
Chapter 7 When "Lightning" Strikes: Preparing for the Unexpected 141
Chapter 8 When "Lightning" Strikes: The Special Challenge of Brain Disorders and Dealing with Anticipatory Loss 167
Chapter 9 Raising Compassionate Children and Paying It Forward 189
Epilogue 205
Acknowledgments 207
Appendix A Questionnaire for Those Who Give Care 209
Appendix B Questionnaire for Past or Present Care Receivers 212
Appendix C Some Common Characteristics of Caretakers and Caregivers 215
Appendix D Circle of Care 217
Appendix E Obstacles to Self-Care: A Brief Review 218
Appendix F Get Out of "Jail" Free Cards 220
Appendix G Compassionate Caregiver's Contract 221
Appendix H In Case of Emergency (ICE) Card 222
Resources 223
Notes 229
About the Author 235
