Caregiving is both stressful and rewarding. There will be days you are jubilant that your senior loved one remembers your name, and others when you repeat the same facts so many times you lose count. It’s necessary to keep a few things in mind while partaking in the emotional rollercoaster that is caregiving:
You can’t do everything
Many caregivers feel like they have failed their senior loved ones when they make the decision to transition the individual to a senior living community. It’s incredibly important for you to know that you cannot do everything. Taking care of another human is a full-time job, and doing so while meeting family responsibilities, working and having your own life isn’t always possible. Plus, by moving your loved one to a senior living community, you are offering him or her a better life. These communities provide around-the-clock health care, nourishing meals, transportation services and even housecleaning. By helping the individual move to a new home, you’re providing new opportunities to thrive for both of you.
Self-care is necessary
You can’t devote every moment of each day to caregiving. This will quickly become exhausting and may even negatively impact your health. When providing care for others, it is equally important to make time for yourself. After all, if you are sick or burnt out you will not be in any position to provide high-quality care to someone else. Make time everyday to follow a passion you are interested in. Engage in some physical activity, cook yourself a fun meal or enjoy a hobby. This you-time is key to keeping your mind and body healthy.
It’s OK to reach out
There is a good chance the person you are caring for has several people in his or her life that can provide support. You may be the main caregiver, but there are plenty of times when it’s a good idea to accept help. That may mean creating a plan for others to assist you in feeding the senior or scheduling who takes the individual to the doctor for important appointments. Also, don’t shy away from seeking professional help. The senior should have a lawyer, someone who has been appointed with power of attorney and a regular physician. These people provide stability in the case of a legal issue or questions about the senior’s estate, and they also offer peace of mind to you. Knowing your loved one is in good hands should he or she need assistance can be very reassuring.
Long-term care is not a failure
Transitioning a loved one to life in long-term care is a success in that you recognize the person has needs that you cannot meet. There are many benefits to living in a senior living community, and your senior friend or family member will appreciate everything that you’ve done for him or her, whether it is spoken aloud or not.
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