This isn’t a job for just one person
Successful caregiving includes not being afraid to reach out and ask for help. Being a caregiver is a challenging role, and trying to shoulder the responsibility by yourself, often proves to be detrimental to both the person you are caring for, and yourself. This isn’t the job for just one person, despite the fact you may think you are “superman or superwoman!”
Let your needs be known
Too often caregivers are afraid to burden others and only reach out to friends and clergy, when they have reached their limit. Don’t wait for that to happen. Caregivers are perfectly within their rights to say “I can’t do it” and to reach out to others that are willing to help. Often, friends don’t know how to help or what you need help with. They see you struggling, but hesitate to “barge” in. Let those people know what you need, they are wanting to help. Give them a list, have them shop for you, have them make you a meal, they can’t help you if they don’t know what you need.
Consider all options for your loved one
Learn how to forgive yourself and understand that your impatience is not directed at your loved one. Above all else, don’t feel guilty. There will come a time that the responsibility will be too much for you to overcome, and you must consider alternative care for your loved one. Pick up the phone, and begin to research senior living communities that could help your loved one live more safely and comfortably. At Crestview, our senior living counselors are there to help you find the right level of care for your loved one. They will listen to you, be a resource for you and guide you through these difficult steps. Just knowing you are not alone in your search, can be very comforting for struggling families.
Eva Hutton, Certified Senior Advisor / Associate Executive Director
