| Back to basics one more time… |
I’ve made the point many times in this blog that as a caregiver you have to take care of yourself first. Sometimes, however, even caregivers who have accepted that basic truth still don’t know what to do. Self-care, like the need for it, can be counter-intuitive. That’s why there are more online resources every day that make suggestions for caregivers.
The University of Southern California provides a sort of Top 10 list for caregivers that you should check out. Actually, you might want to print it out and hang it on your refrigerator. In my opinion, items 9 and 10 deserve special attention because they deal with a couple of the toughest issues of all.
Lists like this are important for every caregiver, but they can be crucially important for caregivers who work alone. My wife and I were a team when Mom lived with us, but many caregivers don’t have that luxury. These solo caregivers are the ones who most need outside support and guidance. A list of tips on the refrigerator may seem silly, but it’s the kind of thing that can make a real difference over time. In the USC list, for example, tip number 1 reminds caregivers not to try to do everything alone. If you see that every single time you have to run to the refrigerator in the space of a day, the truth of it may begin to sink in. That’s a good thing.
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There are 5 Responses to “Fundamentals for Caregivers”
#2 Jan - 25 October, 1:06 PM
One of the biggest stressors is money. I’m speaking of the finances of the caregiver. If your financial future is arranged, that is a lot of stress off your back and off the back of the person you are taking care of because that person probably worries about you. Check out a great booklet on this subject. It can be ordered on their blog at attentioncaregivers.typepad.com.
#3 roses - 25 October, 9:29 PM
I am writing to invite family and professional caregivers to visit CareShare, a free internet forum where you can ask, share, inform…and even gripe. Encourage others; help yourself.
I started CareShare (http://forums.delphiforums.com/careshare) shortly after my mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. This was back in the “stone age,” when cell phones were just for making phone calls, and a blackberry was only a fruit. These days so many caregivers have the capability to log on and reach out to one another, anytime from anywhere. Why not use that technology to offer or receive support!
We are a great resource for one another. We know what its like to worry about a loved one’s declining health while juggling work and other family responsibilities. So who better to turn to than other caregivers who can relate to these experiences. Besides, an objective ear, an open heart, and some common sense can go a long way. Caregiving is tough enough; why go through it alone?
And as I’m sure you know all too well, caregiving is rarely 9-5. Frankly, I’ve done some of my best worrying around 3am. Maybe its not a convenient time to call a friend for support, but its as good time as any to post a message.
Cellphones may have changed over the years, but caregiving issues remain the same. I hope that people will visit CareShare, start a conversation, join a discussion, and know they are not alone.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at agsente@pipeline.com
#4 Jackie Bruns - 18 November, 12:57 PM
I have been my husband’s caregiver for ten years, more so in the past 6 years.
If we don’t start treating caregivers as well as patients, especially when going into long term (years) - we are going to see more caregivers Flip out. This would be a normal reaction for a sole caregiver when the stress level becomes intolerable …
I am aware of the good respite plans available however - when you go away and come back - nothing is changed, the situation is still the same. He/she is still there, and still needs and wants your attention.
Caregivers need help every day to help keep their body and minds healthy. I have found taking a l/2 hr. walk, either by myself or with a compassionate friend, helps keep my sanity. If you don’t have a compassionate friend, go by yourself. It increases your immune system, helps your appetite, burns calories, helps depression, keeps your body active, you will sleep better, and it clears you mind (when walking by yourself).
And, when I feel like I want to punch someone, I walk really fast and that takes care of my anger and frustration.
Also there is the chance that you might have a good conversation with a new person, and thus expand your life a little.
Medicare pays for all kinds of therapy. This should include regular therapy for caregivers to go swimming, walking, exercising or other therapies to help their mental and physical health, and, of course pay for patient care. And the cost would be CONSIDERABLY less than the $6,000 month nursing home fee!
Jackie from Suburbs of Chicago
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#5 Pete - 18 November, 8:40 PM
Jackie,
Thanks for taking the time to provide a view from the front lines!
#1 dianeJ - 25 October, 12:59 AM
The best and yet the most difficult job I performed as a R.N. was taking care of my own mother 24/7. Would not have had it any other way but talk about stress…………..