Being a caregiver for your loved one can be a challenging task that’s difficult to sustain. In this blog, we’re sharing crucial advice for how you can provide great care for your loved one while avoiding caregiver burnout and creating balance for yourself.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask
Many people believe they’re alone in a situation or that they would be burdening someone by asking for help, but this couldn’t be farther from the truth. Reach out to family and friends to get help sharing the load as well as short reprieves from caregiving.
With a network of help, you’ll be able to regain your balance while still ensuring that your loved one is being properly cared for. Many areas have local churches, library groups, or formal organizations that can provide additional support. Don’t wait until you’re overwhelmed and burnt out to ask for help.
Guidance & Support
As a caregiver, you’ll face an onslaught of questions about how to provide the best care for your loved one. It can also be an isolating experience, so it’s important to find support and connect with other caregivers as soon as you can.
Social media groups or online forums can be a helpful place to share tips, get advice, or an outlet to express your concerns when faced with difficult decisions. Medical providers, caregiving organizations, or other local resources can give you a clue as to where to start looking for support groups that meet in person.
Some helpful tools you can use to find important information, support, and assistance on caregiving include:
- Administration on Aging
- National Association of Area Agencies on Aging
- Family Caregiver Alliance
- National Alliance for Caregiving
- Caregiver Action Network
Financial Advice & Aid
Seek out financial and legal advice that can help you find programs, subsidies, and other helpful tools to provide the best care for your loved one while still protecting yourself legally and financially. Receiving professional counsel can also ensure that your loved one has the proper legal pieces in place, like a will and power of attorney, so that you’re not taken by surprise later.
Take Care of Yourself
Caregiving is time consuming and energy-sapping. If you don’t take time for yourself to do what refreshes you, you’re going to burn out very quickly. Give yourself permission to take a break and not do it all—and don’t feel guilty about it.
Although this might be easier said than done, try simple practices that promote health and wellness such as journaling, meditation, getting fresh air, and consistent exercise. Incorporating these, and other healthy practices, into your daily routine can help you improve your physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
Isolation Isn’t the Answer
Remember that being a caregiver is a brave and loving choice even though it has its difficulties and struggles. Be vulnerable and open about your journey to those you love and don’t isolate yourself despite the challenges you may face.
Even if your loved one doesn’t currently need the help of a care home, it can be good to know your options in case anything were to change. At The Canopy (link to www.canopyliving.com), our care facilities are designed to provide as many great experiences as possible. Give our staff a call today at (386) 515-7215 or visit us online and check out the wide range of activities our locations have to offer.
