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Though done in love,
caregiving can take a toll mentally, emotionally, and
physically. It’s something we ‘have’ to do, so we go on.
The Caregiver Action Network has offered 10 Tips for Family
Caregivers:
1.
Seek support from other caregivers. With 90 million other
caregivers out there; we are definitely not alone. There are
support groups locally. Go to www.caregiveraction.org for a
list of national resources.
2.
Take care of your own health. It is NOT selfish to do that.
Eat well, exercise, and limit addictive substances.
3.
Accept offers of help. It is not a sign of weakness. Have a
list of specific things other people can do for you when
they ask.
4.
Learn how to effectively communicate with the doctors.
5.
Take respite breaks often. Make some time for yourself
every day to rest and recharge – even if it’s just 15
minutes. I put myself in ‘time out’.
6.
Watch for signs of depression, and get help when you need
it. Some signs are: angry outbursts; substance abuse;
weight loss; weight gain; and physical symptoms such as
headaches, stomach/digestion problems, and skin eruptions.
7.
Be open to new technology that can help you care for your
loved one. Some newer things are: Smart Phone Touch3 by
Samsung Galaxy for elderly adults; TLC Vibe clock with a
vibrating wristband and an extra loud alarm; BeClose Sensor
that tracks your loved one’s movements and activities, and
can alert you for danger; Medcenter personal medication
reminder alarm; and virtual medical appointments via video,
or apps that will transmit blood sugar or blood pressure
readings to the Primary Care Provider.
8.
Keep medical information and medicine lists organized so it
is easy to find and update. Organization is important
because you never know when you may have to leave work, go
to the hospital, your kids have a surprise school event, or
you have a sudden health emergency of your own.
9.
Make sure legal documents are in order.
10.
Give yourself credit for doing the best you can in the
toughest job there is.
A tip for everyone else –
Be kind to caregivers!
Dianne Hart Pettis, CRNP
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