If you had asked me 10 years ago what I thought I might be doing when I retired from my job as elementary school principal, the answer would have been anything other than the journey I have taken.

My parents have been competent, independent individuals and somehow, I had not envisioned either of them as needing assistance.

Nearly 10 years ago my father began to decline. After a few years of long-distance caretaking from Colorado, I relocated to North Carolina so I could more fully participate in his care and provide comfort to him when his world became increasingly confusing. Though my father passed away a few years ago, my mother has moved in with me.

According to AARP figures, I am not alone. One in four adults in my age group is involved in the care of a parent. Though I consider caregiving to be a privilege and cherish the opportunity to be with those who have given so much to me throughout my life, it can be an exhausting and lonely journey.

Studies have demonstrated that the health of caregivers is often at risk and many even pass away before the one they care for. Many neglect their own health for the simple reason they are unable to take time for even routine medical or dental appointments. Exercise is neglected when a caregiver cannot leave a loved one alone. Relationships suffer as one is unable to get away. Many friends are not comfortable being around those with physical or cognitive limitations. Sadly, at a time when siblings should come together to support each other, old rivalries may surface and caregiving often falls to one person.

My journey has been possible thanks to understanding professionals and services available to those in this area. A turning point for me was when I learned about A Helping Hand, a local nonprofit that has served older adults, disabled individuals and caregivers in the Triangle area for more than 15 years.

It's been over a year now that my mother enjoys her own "special friends." I can leave without worry to have lunch with a friend, go shopping, take a hike or make a dental appointment. This time allows me to recharge my batteries and return refreshed. A unique aspect of A Helping Hand is that they provide services to individuals regardless of their ability to pay, offering free services to those in need who qualify. As more of us become caregivers and contemplate our own future caregiving needs, nonprofit agencies like Helping Hand become even more critical. Without such help, many of us would not be able to care for loved ones or live in our own homes independently.

If you care for a loved one, I urge you to give a gift to yourself and the person you care for by taking time for yourself. Call A Helping Hand at 919-403-5555 to learn how they can help you and your loved one.

If you are in a position to volunteer or offer financial support, find out how you can make a difference in ensuring quality of life for seniors. To learn more about volunteering with A Helping Hand or to make an online donation, please visit www.ahelpinghandnc.org.