Tips for Family Caregivers
Are you a stressed caregiver of a family member or friend? Are your patients or clients in need of aid in their daily care provision? Here are some things to keep in mind while caring for your loved one:
1. Know your limits as a caregiver. Give yourself a break and take some time off once in a while to do things that you enjoy.
2. Confide in others. Talk to friends or other family members about your feelings. Don’t let your emotions get bottled up. Join a caregiver support group that can help you deal with the stresses of being a caregiver.
3. Know your rights as a caregiver and learn as much as you can about your relative or family member’s illness or condition. Communicate with doctors and other healthcare providers often. The more you know, the better care you’ll be able to provide for your loved one.
4. Recognize the signs of depression and seek help if and when you need it. Caregiving can be mentally, emotionally and physically taxing. It’s important to take care of yourself before trying to take care of someone else.
By Emily Mullin
July 21, 2011
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