Hi Coty, thanks for your note.
Like you I worked as a PSW and like you I have experience with family caregiving.
I am so sorry that you lost your mom a short time ago. I can only say that I know you gave your mother the best care you could, and that you honoured her by that care.
Mothers give so much through the years. For you to be able to give back...it doesnt ease the pain of your loss, but it gives you the peace of mind that you were there for her, the very best nurse she could possibly have.
Yes, I said nurse...I believe that PSWs, DSWs, and any other title that is connected to front-line caregiving - is nursing. We all are hands on, giving in energy, giving in observation and offering comfort and love. Being a caregiver is something that requires passion and committment.
I dont have the answer for you about online courses but I know that there are some out there. I will try and get some information for you. Anyone reading this thread please feel free to respond and offer whatever links you know about.
Coty, thank you for reaching out on the forum. I hope you will continue to post wherever you have interest or expertise. Its the "school of hard knocks" that most of us graduated from...as well as courses like PSW.
Let me tell you that there are some wonderful caring people who run and moderate and contribute to this forum.
Please let others know that you have found a safe place to talk, think out loud, find answers...(and now I need to go and find some for you:)
Sorry I got long-winded:)
Sincerely,
a fellow PSW and family caregiver
NatR