Overcoming Challenges of Being a Family Caregiver
Your aging parents spent many years caring for you, so it can be incredibly rewarding to give back and spend time caring for them. However, this can also be challenging when trying to balance your own family, job, and obligations. Creating a routine can be a good place to start so that you have a better idea of your schedule and know what needs to be done and when.
Here are a few other ways to keep things running more smoothly and reduce risk of burnout.
Keep Your Aging Parent Involved
You don’t have to feel responsible for everyone and everything. Let your aging parent remain as independent as possible. Figure out what they are able to do on their own, and what they need some assistance doing. There may be small changes you can make around their home to enhance their safety and independence.
Talk to them about how you can best support them and whether there are any programs or groups they want to be part of. Dropping them off at the rec center or a friend’s house can help them stay active and give you some time to yourself.
Share the Responsibility
It can be difficult talking to family about caring for your loved one, especially if you have been the primary caregiver for a while. Don’t be afraid to ask for help; sometimes others don’t step up because they are not sure what to do or think you have it handled. Be open about how others can share the responsibilities, such as driving to or from appointments, making meals, helping with housekeeping or laundry, or simply spending time with your loved one.
Work together to create a schedule that fits your senior’s needs while sharing tasks in a fair and balanced manner. Make sure everyone knows what they are responsible for and communicates with one another if changes need to be made.
Practice Self Care
Don’t forget to take some time for yourself. Make it a point to schedule some activities that you like to do, whether that is lunch with a friend, or some quiet time alone reading a good book. Make arrangements to have someone else come help care for your aging parent or coordinate respite care so you can unwind and recharge. You are no good to yourself or anyone else if you are burned out.
Partner with an In-Home Caregiver
In-home care can provide you and your loved one with valuable support. You can schedule a trained caregiver to come in for a few hours a week or a few hours a day, depending on what your family needs. What times are most challenging for you to manage? What tasks does your aging parent need extra help with?
From assistance with morning or nighttime routines, meal planning and preparation, and light housekeeping to escorting on errands, giving medication reminders, and offering companionship, in-home care services can be tailored to meet your senior’s unique needs and preferences.
Give yourself the opportunity to truly enjoy the time you get to spend with your loved one by working with an in-home caregiver who can provide just the right level of assistance. Take some of the responsibility off of your shoulders and know that your senior is in good hands. Contact Always Best Care today at (855) 470-2273 to schedule a free consultation.
