Helpful Tips for Caregivers

From the Cleveland Clinic Health System www.cchs.net

• Find someone you trust—such as a friend, co-worker or neighbor—to talk to about your feelings and frustrations.
  
• Set realistic goals, accept that you may need help with caregiving, and turn to others for help with some tasks.
  
• Be realistic about your loved one’s disease, especially if it is a progressive disease such as Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s.
  
• Don’t forget about yourself because you’re too busy caring for someone else. Set aside time for yourself, even if it’s just an hour or two. Remember, self-care is not a luxury. It is an absolute necessity for caregivers.
  
• Talk to a professional. Most therapists, social workers and clergy members are trained to counsel individuals dealing with a wide range of physical and emotional issues.
  
• Take advantage of respite care services. Respite care provides a temporary break for caregivers. This can range from a few hours of in-home care to a short stay in a nursing home or assisted living facility.
  
• Know your limits and take a reality check of your personal situation. Recognize and accept your potential for caregiver burnout.
  
• Be honest with yourself about your capabilities and goals. Set small, achievable goals for yourself and your caregiving.
  
• Educate yourself. The more you know about the illness, the more effective you will be in caring for the person with the illness.
  
• Develop new tools for coping. Remember to lighten up and accentuate the positive. Use humor to help deal with everyday stress.
  
• Stay healthy by eating right and getting plenty of exercise and sleep.
  
• Accept your feelings. Having negative feelings—such as frustration or anger—about your responsibilities or the person for whom you are caring is normal. It does not mean you are a bad person or a bad caregiver.
  
• Join a caregiver support group. Sharing your feelings and experiences with others in the same situation can help you manage stress, locate helpful resources, and reduce feelings of frustration or isolation.
  
• Contact your area Agency on Aging for information on services available in your area, such as adult day care, caregiver support groups, and respite care.
  

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