I would like to share with you a few things I have learned and in which I truly believe:

I believe that there is a true stream of Good Guys around your town and around the nation dedicated to supporting the work of family caregivers.

I believe that each and every family caregiver plays an integral role in the care of his or her loved ones in need and deserve as much care, support and respect as possible from friends, family and the healthcare system.

I believe that a small group of dedicated people can move mountains and that family caregivers move more than his or her share of boulders on a daily basis.

And most of all, I believe in you and the fact that the world would be a much poorer place without you in it caring as you do.

I also think that as the manager of your loved ones healthcare needs, you can get family members to help during the holiday season (don’t laugh).  Here are a few tips to help you get the help you need this holiday season:

•  Assess the talents of those who will be entering your house this holiday season and put them to task.  If your brother is a good carpenter, let him look at that squeaky door.  Is your sister a great cook?  Assign her to the kitchen for some of the holiday meals.
• Get away for a while. Make sure your loved one is in trusted hands and step out of the house for a few hours to take care of you. Go to the museum, shop for yourself, get a manicure or just find a comfortable place and read a steamy novel.
• Take your cue from your loved one regarding his or her ability to participate. Involve them as much or as little in the celebrations solely based upon what they can handle physically, mentally or emotionally.  

And most important of all:

•  Relax. What makes this season special is sharing time with your loved ones, not the perfect tree or the un-burnt turkey. Set your expectations to enjoy

 

Gary Barg
Editor-in-Chief
gary@caregiver.com