Caregivers deserve a lot of credit. If you are a caregiver and are reading this post, give yourself a pat on the back. Day in and day out you put the needs of your loved ones before you. Caregiving is a very tough job, physically and emotionally. We found these tips on the American Heart Association’s website. If you are starting to feel burned out or overly stressed read these tips:
- Choose to take charge of your life, and don’t let your loved one’s illness or disability always take center stage.
- Remember to be good to yourself. Love, honor and value yourself. You’re doing a very hard job and you deserve some quality time just for you.
- Watch for signs of depression and don’t delay in getting professional help when you need it.
- When people offer to help, accept the offer and suggest specific things they can do.
- Educate yourself about your loved one’s condition. Information is empowering.
- There’s a difference between caring and doing. Be open to new technologies and ideas that promote your loved one’s independence and help you do your job easier.
- Trust your instincts. Most of the time they’ll lead you in the right direction.
- Grieve for your losses, then allow yourself to dream new dreams.
- Stand up for your rights as a caregiver and as a citizen.
- Seek support from other caregivers. There is great strength in knowing that you are not alone.
If you are a full-time caregiver and need some respite give Western Health HomeCare a call and we can send one of our professional Personal Care Attendants to your loved one’s home and provide you with some respite. Whether you just need the afternoon off to go to the salon or see a movie, or if you feel you need to get away for the weekend, it’s okay. We’ll be here to step in and care for your loved one. Call us today at (619) 656-4380 to learn more or visit our Private Duty page here.