Tips for Caregivers

Caregiving can be overwhelming, and, if you’re caring for a parent, spouse, child, or friend who is ill, you may sometimes feel alone. The following tips, though not guaranteed to erase your stress, may be helpful as you navigate the challenges that face caregivers.

• Caregiving is a job. Reward yourself with frequent breaks. For a good break, try the following.
  • Grab a box of popcorn and rent a movie.
  • Brew a cup of coffee or make hot chocolate.
  • Watch your favorite television show.
  • Go to your local library or bookstore and pick up a book to read.
  • Make your favorite meal or dessert.
  • Take a walk around the neighborhood.
  • Write in your journal.
  • Call a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while.
  • Make plans to get together with a close friend or family member.
  • Go to your local movie theater for a show.
• Be aware of signs of depression, and get professional help when you need it.
• When people offer to help you, accept the offer. You may even suggest specific tasks that they can do for you.
• In your role as caregiver, you will probably communicate with doctors and other health care professionals. Take steps to educate yourself about your loved one’s condition. Read a magazine article or visit websites for useful health information.
• Remember that there is a difference between caring for someone and trying to do everything yourself. Try to be open to new technologies and ideas that promote your loved one’s independence.
• Trust yourself, and trust your own instincts as a caregiver.
• You may do a great deal of pushing, pulling, and lifting while caregiving. Take care of your back, and don’t strain yourself.
• Take the time to be sorry about any losses you experience as a caregiver, and then set new goals and dreams for yourself.
• The number of caregivers is growing all the time. Seek support from others who are experiencing the same hardships and triumphs that you are; there’s comfort in knowing that you are not alone.
• Consider advocacy: always stand up for your rights as both a caregiver and a citizen.
• Organization and time management are key for caregivers; it’s best to have emergency numbers, contacts, and other important phone numbers accessible at all times.

Adapted from The National Family Caregivers Association website

Website last updated: 12/30/11
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