Caring for a loved one can be extremely rewarding but also emotionally and physically taxing. As a caregiver, you are responsible for not only providing care with day to day tasks but also ensuring that the person in your care is safe, comfortable and happy. It can be a lot for any person, especially if you are doing it alone.
It is important to recognize you may not be able to, or have to do it all on your own. Sometimes we need to ask for help. For years I tried doing it on my own, and it resulted in a trip to the ER having a stress heart attack.
Asking for help is essential to maintaining your well-being and the person you are caring for. It is not something to be judged - super person syndrome “I should be able to do it all”. Asking for help is healthy and in the long run, is best for everyone.
In this blog, we will discuss why asking for help may need to become a priority and provide a list of resources available to caregivers.
Why Asking for Help is Important for Caregivers
- Prevents Burnout: Caregiving can be overwhelming and emotionally draining. It is important to take breaks and take care of yourself to avoid burnout. Asking for help allows you to take time for yourself, which can improve your well-being and prevent burnout.
- Reduces Stress: Caregiving can be a stressful job. Sharing the responsibility with others can reduce the amount of stress and provide a sense of relief.
- Improves Care: Asking for help can improve the quality of care provided to the person in need. It allows for a fresh perspective and input from others, which can lead to better decision making and care planning.
- Builds Support Network: Caregiving can be a lonely job. Asking for help can create a support network that can offer emotional support, share knowledge, and resources.
- Prevents Isolation: Caregiving can be isolating, and you may feel like you are going through the experience alone. Asking for help can lead to social interaction, which can prevent isolation and provide a sense of community.
List of Resources Available to Caregivers
- Respite Care: Respite care provides temporary relief to caregivers by arranging for someone else to take over their duties for a short period of time. This can include in-home care, adult day care, or overnight care. Contact your doctor or local health service for more information.
- Support Groups: Caregiver support groups can provide emotional support, resources, and education. These groups allow caregivers to share their experiences with others who can relate and provide guidance. Select groups that support you and are focused on positive outcomes and resources.
- Counseling: Caregivers may experience emotional and psychological distress due to the demands of their role. Counseling can help caregivers cope with stress, depression, and anxiety.
- Meals on Wheels: Meals on Wheels is a service that delivers hot, nutritious meals to the homes of seniors and individuals with disabilities. This can help relieve the caregiver’s responsibility of meal preparation.
- Transportation Services: Transportation services can provide transportation to and from medical appointments, grocery stores, and other necessary errands. This can help reduce the caregiver’s responsibilities and provide a sense of independence for the person in their care.
- Technology Aids: Technology aids such as medical alert systems, medication reminders, and GPS tracking can provide peace of mind to caregivers and help maintain the independence of the person in their care.
Other resources include: veteran associations.
If you are experiencing any verbal or physical abuse please seek support immediately. Resources include: victim services (usually available through your police), your doctor, 911.
Asking for help is an essential part of caregiving. It allows you to maintain your well-being and thrive.
Asking for help is healthy and can enhance your experience as a caregiver. Caregiving can be a rewarding experience, but it is important to take care of yourself as well as the person in your care.