the Hedge People
Caring for those with Alzheimer’s can be emotionally depleting. Frustration often dominates the day as you try to bridge the gap between real life and a person who has lost touch with reality. Combine that with the grief over the loss of the person you used to know and a haunting fear of what is to come and it seems as though life will never see laughter and joy again. But it does.
The 1st Edition has sold out. Only used copies are available for now. We are hoping to reprint soon.
In her collection of true stories, author Louise Carey conveys attitudes and techniques for treating dementia patients with respect while also finding humor in the unusual and frustrating situations encountered by the caregiver. The Hedge People offers caregivers solace in the stories and joy in the journey as they face the daily challenges of care giving with God’s help. Filled with humor, warmth, and encouragement, each chapter includes a caregiver prayer, a leading question for reflection, and space to journal.
Reviews
This is a must read for anyone that cares for a person with Alzheimer’s disease!
“The Hedge People offers hope for caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia and teaches new ways of looking at caregiving, not as a burden, but as a gift along life’s journey. Louise fills the book’s pages with love and prayers. She encourages caregivers to accept their roles through seeking meaning in the daily moments and experiences of caregiving—which may seem insurmountable, but are true opportunities for faith-building and meaningful engagement with loved ones. Caregiver support group leaders will enjoy the book and it’s easy to read fashion, and may choose to use particular chapters as tools for group reflection, sharing and support. This is a must read for anyone that cares for a person with Alzheimer’s disease!”
Cathy Hanson, Program Manager
Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Maryland Chapter
Real, honest, and completely aware of the beauty in suffering and loss.
“I believe humor is absolutely necessary when one is caring for their elderly loved ones. Respect for that loved one is also essential. Louise’s stories reflect both of those qualities so beautifully. The Hedge People made me laugh and cry and remember the last days spent with my own mom. Louise has a way of being real, honest, and completely aware of the beauty in the suffering and loss. Her book honors the elderly and their caregivers and reminds all of us that God is right there with us, exposing His mercy and grace in some unlikely circumstances.”
Evie P
Long Beach, California
This is a story of love, family, and commitment - and it's true!
“This is a story of love, family, and commitment - and it's true! Louise Carey gives us a wonderful example to follow. We are reminded to look for the positives and humor in each situation, rather than the drudgery and repetition that occur as a caregiver. This book was a real encouragement to me. There are also practical suggestions for those of us who have been thrust into the caregiver role. A warm and loving read.”
Kathy H
Whittier, California
Many of the lessons can be applied to other challenges we all face in life.
“The Hedge People gave me valuable insights and a new compassion for those with dementia and their caregivers. I appreciated Louise Carey's ability to find humor in her circumstances, but also the spiritual lessons that were gleaned through daily frustrations. Many of the lessons can be applied to other challenges we all face in life. Caregivers will appreciate her honesty, uplifting faith, and practical advice. Some would consider being an Alzheimer's caregiver to be a 'sour' experience, but Louise has made wonderful lemonade.”
Sue H
Lancaster, Pennsylvania