You are not alone if you are taking care of an elderly parent or helping a loved one or friend who is chronically ill, disabled, or old. You are one of the 22 million people in the United States who take care of an older person. Caregivers provide 80% of in-home care, but unlike nurses and home health aides, they don't get paid for their work.
Dr. Elizabeth Clark, the executive director of the National Association of Social Workers, says that caregiving is a hard job that can hurt relationships, jobs, and emotional health. "People who care for others should also take care of themselves."
Here are some important things caregivers should know:
Don't be shy about asking for help.
Most of the time, we wait until we are in trouble to ask for help and advice. Find a licenced clinical social worker or another trained professional to help you.
It is hard to tell your parents what to do.
The hardest part of taking care of an elderly parent is the day you have to tell them they need help, can't drive anymore, or might have to move. Talk about long-term care wishes and needs before you get sick.
• Look after your mental health
It's normal to get angry at your parents or children when they refuse to listen to you or accept your help. Get a recommendation for a professional who can help you deal with your own problems and stress.
• Stay in the know.
The world we live in changes all the time. Medicines and treatments are always changing, and the only way to know what's new is to keep up with the news. Attend local caregiver conferences, join support groups, talk to friends and family, and talk to gerontology and geriatrics professionals.
• Take Time Out
Caregivers who feel burned out need to accept that they may need a break from their loved one sometimes in order to give the best care to that person.
• Laugh
Laughter and humour are great medicine.
• Hire Help
You might want to hire help if you can. The most important thing is to find people you can trust to help you. Use home care agencies that have been recommended to you, ask friends about their experiences, and talk to professionals before deciding which one to hire.
