Educational Material
ARE YOU A CAREGIVER?
Whatever your age, you are a
caregiver if you provide care that helps a person who is frail, elderly or
disabled.
Family and volunteer caregivers
provide 85% of all home care given in this country.
Caring for a relative or friend
may be something you never expected or wanted. It may happen slowly or
suddenly.
Few of us are trained to be
caregivers. While caregiving can be physically and emotionally demanding,
you can learn ways to make it easier.
YOUR REACTIONS AS A CAREGIVER
A confusing mix of emotions is
normal.
You may feel love and concern,
hostility and resentment, anger at your loved one receiving care, sadness
or grief, helplessness, embarrassment and guilt -- all at the same
time!
CARE FOR YOURSELF
Caregiving is both satisfying and
stressful. You may feel pressure from your job and family. Know the
warning signs that may signal a breaking point.
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Inability to accept
help from others |
|
Withdrawal from people
close to you |
|
|
|
Disinterest in normal
leisure activities |
YOU CAN FIND HELP
|
|
|
- Turn responsibility
over to another, either for a few hours or a few
days.
|
|
|
|
- Take your feelings
into account.
|
|
- Be realistic about
what you can or cannot do.
|
|
|
|
- Actively look for
ways to involve other family members, friends and neighbors
with your care receiver -- and keep them
involved.
|
|
- Recognize your loved
one's abilities. People who need help also crave
independence.
|
|
- Join a support
group. Support groups can let you learn, receive
encouragement, and share insights and understanding with other
caregivers.
|
|
- Learn about helpful
resources in the community.
|
|
- Take care of
yourself. Get the sleep you need. Find a private place and
spend time there each day. Take time to enjoy yourself and
your family.
|
|
| Another person depends on you! If you are
not in good health, that person may suffer. Seek help if
needed. | 
