Tips for those who unknowingly have become caregivers
Raise your hand if you do any of the following: drive a loved one to a doctor’s visit, make meals for this loved one, help this loved one make medical decisions, or call this person regularly to check on them.
Unbeknownst to you, you’ve become a family caregiver. Whether you live with your loved one or not, you’re investing hours and hours of your time to support your loved one with their daily activities because they may be too weak or too sick to help themselves. Don’t worry. You’re not alone.
According to caregiveraction.org, there are more than 65 million people providing care for a chronically ill, disabled or aging family member or friend. With that, these people are spending an average of 20 hours per week helping out this loved one.
It’s estimated that the cost of such caregiving adds up to about $375-billion a year – about twice as much as is spent on home care and nursing home services combined, according to the National Alliance for Caregiving and Evercare. Here are some tips to provide comfortable care if you’ve unknowingly become your loved one’s caregiver.
For physical support:
• Assess their pain: Regularly ask your loved one to describe any physical pain or discomfort they may be experiencing, using a scale of 0 to 10. This can provide valuable insights into their condition and help prioritize their needs.
• Document symptoms: Keep a detailed record of any pain, symptoms, or concerns they share. This information will be vital during medical appointments to ensure no detail is overlooked.
• Engage during appointments: When accompanying your loved one to the doctor, take notes during the visit, writing down the physician’s instructions, recommendations, and answers to your questions. Store these notes in a journal or app so you can refer to them later when managing their care.
For emotional support:
• Create space for open dialogue: Dedicate time each day to talk with your loved one about their emotions and feelings. These conversations can help them feel heard and valued.
• Validate their feelings: Instead of trying to fix or minimize their emotions, offer reassurance. Let them know that it’s perfectly normal to feel the way they do. Be empathetic and supportive.
• Encourage professional help: If your loved one expresses interest in speaking with a counselor, therapist, or spiritual leader, encourage and assist them in finding the right support. This can make a significant difference in their emotional well-being.
For self-care as a caregiver:
• Don’t hesitate to seek help: Identify specific tasks that others can assist with, such as cooking, grocery shopping, or cleaning. Create a list and ask family, friends, or community groups to step in where needed.
• Prioritize your health: Caregiving is demanding, so carve out time to exercise, eat nutritious meals, and rest. These activities will not only sustain your physical health but also boost your mental resilience.
• Address your own feelings: It’s natural to experience anxiety, grief, or frustration as a caregiver. Don’t ignore these emotions. Talk to a physician, or therapist, or join a caregiver support group to connect with others who understand your challenges.
Additional tips for effective caregiving:
• Educate yourself: Learn as much as you can about your loved one’s condition. Understanding their needs and limitations will empower you to provide better care.
• Set realistic expectations: Recognize that you can’t do everything. It’s okay to prioritize tasks and let go of perfection.
• Take breaks: Regular breaks are essential to recharge and avoid burnout. Utilize respite care services or ask others to step in so you can rest.
Remember, you’re not alone. Caregiving is a demanding and often overwhelming role, but you don’t have to face it alone. Whether it’s through family, friends, or professional services, there is support available. By prioritizing your well-being alongside that of your loved one, you’ll be able to provide compassionate, effective care while maintaining a sense of balance in your life.
Taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. After all, you can only care for others when you’re healthy and support yourself.
