Caregiver Resources

Becoming a family caregiver is a role we often do not plan for. Whether sudden or gradual, a loved one’s illness or disability can find us in the vital role of providing assistance with daily tasks such as balancing checkbooks, bill paying, running errands, driving to doctors’ appointments, monitoring medications, and helping with bathing, dressing, and feeding. Round the clock supervision may become necessary.

According to AARP, twenty-two percent of persons aged 45 to 55 are providing personal or financial care for older relatives—an age where we are often at the height of a career, and may still have children in the household. Because caregiving can go on for months and years, it can be emotionally, physically, and financially taxing. But there are many resources available to provide education, support, and respite. You are not alone.

Assessing Caregiving Needs

You need to begin with a realistic idea of where you are at and where you are going. Get a full exam and diagnosis of your loved one’s mental and physical health. A comprehensive, multi-disciplinary assessment may be helpful if the patient has a number of different medical conditions, is taking multiple medications, is in mental decline, or has undiagnosed or problematic symptoms. Once you understand the personal care, household care, and safety precautions needed, you can begin to work with a specialist in care management to help you create a comprehensive care plan to provide all necessary services. Learn More

Caregiving Assistance

Because caregiving is an exhausting job, it is important to create a network of assistance when possible. Adult day care programs provide a fun, safe, and social environment away from the home. If around-the-clock care is necessary (such as medications administered throughout the night or if the patient cannot be left alone because of advanced memory loss), consider arranging for a home care aide for the night shift to allow you a period of uninterrupted sleep. Personal aides can also be hired for full-time, periodic, or respite care. Accept your friends’ or family members’ offers of help to provide respite care, run errands, or even be a sympathetic listener when you find yourself in a rough spot.

Consider Professional Care Management

If keeping track of your loved ones medications, doctor appointments and medical needs is becoming overwhelming, consider working with a professional Geriatric Care Manager. Care Managers are professionals with specialists in gerontology, social work, or nursing. They can help you arrange for and coordinate your loved one's various services and appointments, discuss financial options and government care programs, and monitor your loved one's care and progress over time. Care Coordinators are especially beneficial if you live far from your loved one and are responsible for arranging care from a distance. Having a local set of eyes and ears can greatly reduce your stress. Learn More

Reach for Emotional Support

Do not neglect your emotional health. A support group for caregivers can offer connection with others facing similar circumstances, providing a social, emotional, and educational outlet. One-on-one counseling may also be helpful.

Take Advantage of Available Support

Always remember that maintaining your own health is as vital as maintaining the health of your loved one. Taking advantage of available support and arranging for a consistent period of rest away from caregiving can help you avoid debilitating burnout. Even if a making a phone call seems like more than you can add to your already busy schedule, you will be glad when you have done it. Help is available for your situation. Respite and partnership will make a difference in your quality of life, and in your loved one's health and well being.