Mary Nyabeta provided over two decades of care for her husband, Joel Omweri, after he was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. The couple, who married in 1969, first noticed symptoms in 2002, which were later confirmed at Tenwek Mission Hospital. Omweri was prescribed Sinemet, but his condition progressively worsened, requiring his wife to assist him with all daily activities.
Nyabeta described how her world narrowed to the confines of their home as she managed his medication, which cost between 80 and 90 shillings per tablet, and attended to his constant needs. She stated that her faith and wedding vows sustained her through the immense physical and emotional strain. Counseling psychologist Benson Nyagaka explained that such long-term caregiving can lead to burnout and anticipatory grief, emphasizing the need for support systems and policy frameworks to help caregivers.
Nyagaka urged caregivers to seek emotional support and take breaks to manage stress. Reflecting on her experience, Nyabeta expressed that she would make the same choice again, advising others to care for their spouses without complaint.
Nyabeta described how her world narrowed to the confines of their home as she managed his medication, which cost between 80 and 90 shillings per tablet, and attended to his constant needs. She stated that her faith and wedding vows sustained her through the immense physical and emotional strain. Counseling psychologist Benson Nyagaka explained that such long-term caregiving can lead to burnout and anticipatory grief, emphasizing the need for support systems and policy frameworks to help caregivers.
Nyagaka urged caregivers to seek emotional support and take breaks to manage stress. Reflecting on her experience, Nyabeta expressed that she would make the same choice again, advising others to care for their spouses without complaint.
