Tips for Caregivers
Caregiving is a human act of kindness that spans centuries. It will touch almost everyone in the years ahead. The demand for caregiving services has enlarged considerably and will only become more prominent as our population lives longer with increased life span expectancies and medical advances.
When you take on the task of caregiving time becomes one of your most important resources. The best way to prevent caregiver burnout is to hold back some time out of every day for you. Here are some other tips for caregivers.
- Take care of yourself physically. Get regular exercise. Exercise can be a good energizer for both physical and emotional health. Maintain a healthy diet. A good diet will give you more energy to carry you through the day.
- Make time for an activity you enjoy such as reading, listening to music, painting or doing crafts. Even if you can only do it for a few minutes each day.
- Set reasonable expectations for yourself. Realize that you just can’t be everything to everyone all of the time. Acknowledge your limitations and focus on what is most important.
- Educate yourself about your loved ones medical condition; know what you are dealing with. Communicate with the physician about the diagnosis, prognosis and what to expect in the future.
- Take care of legal matters, both medical and financial. Keep important papers in a safe and accessible place such as insurance papers, social security number and Medicare cards, legal documents, advance directives, names and phone numbers of medical providers, and information about all medications.
- Let go of guilt. Tell yourself that you are doing a good job at a very difficult task and ask for help when you need it. Feeling guilty is often a sign that you need a break from your caregiving schedule. Ask your friends and family to pitch in.
- Join a support group. Seek out people who are going through the same experiences you are living each day.
- "Laugher is the best medicine"…buy a light-hearted book or rent a comedy video. Whenever you can, try to find some humor in everyday situations.
When you are a caregiver, finding time for positive, nurturing interactions with others might seem impossible. But, you owe it to yourself to find time for you. Without it, you may not have the mental strength to deal with all of the emotions you experience. Give yourself permission to not be perfect…you are doing your best.
If you have any questions dealing with the care of older adults please contact the Caregiver Advisor, Libby Laue, at Heartland Human Services at 1-888-560-8805 ext. 1062.