Tips for Caregivers

10 Tips for Caregivers

• Caregiving is a job and respite is your earned right. Reward yourself with respite breaks often.
• Watch out for signs of depression and don’t delay in getting professional help when you need it.
• When people offer to help, accept the offer and suggest specific things that they can do.
• Educate yourself about your loved one’s condition and how to communicate effectively with healthcare providers.
• There’s a difference between caring and doing. Be open to technologies and ideas that promote your loved one’s independence.
• Trust your instincts. Most of the time they’ll lead you in the right direction.
• Caregivers often do a lot of lifting, pushing, and pulling. Be good to your back by learning safe lifting techniques.
• Grieve for your losses, and then allow yourself to dream new dreams.
• Seek support from other caregivers. There is great strength in knowing you are not alone.
• Stand up for your rights as a caregiver and a citizen.