Guess I need to connect with you all ....only caregivers now how each other feels. I've come to this site many times this past year, and you all always made me feel I could make it.
I alone took care of Dad for 6 years. He died just a few weeks ago. Strange how I felt more relief than grief. We were close. Now I'm able to do what I need to do, and get back to work, and re-establish an income. Dad had nothing left after being taken care of for so long. Even all my money's gone. So, that being said, of course I need to get income asap to pay the bills. But I feel so stuck and unmotivated. I don't know why I feel so incompetent and in limbo. I'm in serious financial trouble, but I can't seem to get moving. Anyone else experience this after their loved one dies?
But, having said that, being without income gives you a whole new set of problems to cope with. For the sake of minimizing that set of problems you may need to force yourself to get on with finding employment.
I think the first step toward employment is someone to talk to, and it sounds like the hospice social worker is a good candidate. Make a list of things to do to start employment, and put contacting her at the top of the list. You can't cope with a lot of things right now, but you need to cope with getting income, and you sound like the kind of person who can do that, with a little support.
Perhaps right now you should not even try to find the career job you'll want to do for the next five to ten years. Maybe look for something low key. You might be "over qualified" for a lot of jobs, but a job that is not too demanding might get you back into the market. Think of it as a starter home -- and plan to trade up when you are ready.
I'm sorry that you have to plunge into the job market so soon. But you CAN do this -- you certainly did a lot harder things in the past 6 years.
Please come back and tell us how things are working out.
Have you checked into a health care provider for low income individuals...After a LOT of pushing and coaxing from folks, I finally went this very day to an establishment that provides health care to folks with no insurance, low or no income, etc. and I have to say that i was pleasantly surprised at the degree of care I got...Maybe the social worker could provide some info regarding any services available in your area? Do keep us posted...I will keep you in my prayers...and take care of yourself.