As a Caregiver, Am I…

☐ Asking before helping or touching?
☐ Listening without interrupting?
☐ Honoring preferences, even if they differ from mine?
☐ Checking in emotionally, not just physically?
☐ Setting boundaries around what I can and cannot do?
☐ Allowing the person to make decisions where possible?
☐ Accepting when they say “no” — and not taking it personally?

As a Patient or Loved One, Am I…

☐ Communicating my needs clearly and respectfully?
☐ Acknowledging the effort my caregiver is making?
☐ Allowing help without guilt or shame?
☐ Being open to compromise when I feel resistant?
☐ Avoiding blame or manipulation when I’m scared?
☐ Checking in with how I’m treating those around me?
☐ Giving space for others to say “I need help too”?

 Together, Are We…

• ☐Having honest conversations — even when they’re hard?
  ☐ Making space for each other’s emotions without judgment?
  ☐ Taking breaks when needed to prevent burnout?
  ☐ Inviting outside support when we’re stuck?
  ☐ Remembering that illness affects the whole family — not just one person?

Emotion Check: Are We Naming What’s Really Going On?

☐ Have we acknowledged the grief, fear, or loss behind our reactions?
☐ Are we expressing emotions constructively — or through control, blame, or withdrawal?
☐ Are we giving each other permission to be vulnerable, scared, or sad?
☐ Have we created space to say, “This is hard,” without needing to fix it?
☐ Are we responding to the current situation — or still holding onto the past?

Respect in the Long Run: Are We Evolving Together?

☐ Are we allowing roles to shift with changing needs — not clinging to old patterns?
☐ Are we open to new ways of supporting each other, even if they feel unfamiliar?
☐ Are we checking in regularly to adjust expectations and responsibilities?
☐ Are we making room for joy, humor, and connection — not just survival?
☐ Are we remembering that respect isn’t a one-time action, but a daily practice?

One Final Reminder:
Respect is the bridge between love and understanding. It doesn’t always come easily in hard moments, but it’s always worth reaching for.

As always thanks for being here, it really means a lot.  One small voice or share means the difference for many.

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