Caregivers Need a Break.

The #1 Rule of Caregiving:

The caregiver needs to take care of herself in order to be any good for the person she's caring for on a daily basis.

The problem is that many caregivers don't do this; instead they put their loved ones' needs first. Then, start to get worn out, stressed and often-sick.

Caregivers often report feeling guilty on multiple levels; feeling guilty for wanting a break, for not spending enough time with their kids or spouse, and for getting irritable with their loved one. Of course, this guilt and stress will have a negative impact on a person's health and well-being. It will also impact their role as a caregiver. It can be an incredibly emotionally draining cycle.

It's so important that the caregiver know that it's okay to need a break -
It's okay to put yourself first. Living up to "superhero" expectations is draining and it is certainly not healthy.

We recently read an article on Today.com: Love Without Losing Yourself: 16 Ways to Survive Caregiver Stress. #13 on that list: You need time to rejuvenate.

Whether it's just a few hours each week to run errands or a few weeks each year to take a much-needed vacation, don't feel guilty about carving out some time to keep your own life in balance.

Do not forget to take advantage of the many resources for caregivers that are available. If you feel overwhelmed with the tasks of caregiving, you can seek assistance from family, friends, support groups, and community organizations to help you through the difficult times. Schedule in-home care for just a few hours each week so that you can have that time to do something for yourself.

Other helpful tips from that article include: Review the prescription drugs, Streamline the paperwork, Help your parent want to eat, Tackle driving issues with care, and - Don't sweat the small stuff.

Here at Happy at Home, meeting patient and family needs is our prime concern.
We deliver compassionate health care services in a wide range of settings.

Our pledge to treat your loved ones with the grace and dignity they deserve is what truly separates Happy at Homefrom the competition. We look forward to helping you with the challenges and the pleasures of caring for your loved one.

Contact us for more information or to schedule a visit.