Being a caregiver is
a stressful and demanding job. There is usually very
little, if any opportunity to prepare for a new
caregiving situation. The well-being of the caregiver
requires priority consideration. Thought must be given
to the fate of the care recipient if the caregiver
becomes unable to continue with caregiving
responsibilities. Caregivers are susceptible to
depression, illness, physical exhaustion and emotional
exhaustion. Any of these conditions will easily
interfere with a person's ability to be an effective
caregiver.
The following are
suggestions for maintaining caregiver well-being:
-
Become informed
about the care recipient's health issues and any
expected changes in behavior.
-
Accept the facts
and deal with your situation the best that you can.
-
Seek
professional help whenever necessary.
-
Share the burden
of caring and caregiving with family members and
other interested persons.
-
Talk about your
problems with a trusted person.
-
Don't be too
shy, proud, or afraid to seek help with caregiving.
-
Become aware of
the limits of your caregiving abilities.
-
Maintain social
activities and important relationships.
-
Get away from
the responsibilities from time to time.
-
Pace yourself.
You may be responsible for caregiving for many
years.
-
Work off anger
with physical activity.
-
Plan ahead to
avoid crises where possible.
-
Live one day at
a time.
-
Recognize the
worst-case scenario, but hope for the best.
-
Join a family
support group.
-
Keep your sense
of humor.
Taken from:
"Understanding and caring for the person with
Alzheimer's Disease" A practical Guide prepared by the
Atlanta Area Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association.
