As an elderly family member continues to age, one or more other members of the family often start taking on the role of caregivers for them. Being a caregiver can be an extremely rewarding duty, particularly in that you get to spend plenty of time with that loved one. However, 24-hour home care in Main Line, or any caregiving you provide can take a toll! Many family caregivers may become burned out, which can impact their health and the level of care. Caring for yourself is a vital part of caring for another.
Tips to Protect Yourself When Acting as a Caregiver
Know your limits
How many hours per day are you spending on your caregiving? Will this time restrict your ability to deal with needs and obligations in your own life? After all, no one can provide 24-hour home care in Main Line PA all by themselves. Look for help, either from family or friends or through a company like Neighborly Home Care, who offers respite care as well as 24-hour home care.
Be aware of your mental state
Caregivers under too much strain can start to exhibit symptoms of depression, so know the warning signs. If you find yourself increasingly angry, irritable, or otherwise exhibiting harmful emotions, you may need to take a step back and re-evaluate the situation.
Have someone to talk to
Whether you have a friend, co-worker,pastor, psychologist, or someone else – all caregivers sometimes need a shoulder to cry on. Many of the stresses and burdens of caregiving can be lessened simply by having an outlet to talk about your own worries.
Celebrate the small victories
In a caregiving situation, particularly in cases such as dementia where the situation will inevitably get worse over time, becoming fixated on the negative is easy. Remember to look at the positives as well. Celebrate accomplishments, and appreciate good moments when they come. Doing so will help your own mental state and help keep your loved one in good spirits as well.
Understand there may come a time when your efforts will fall short
Knowing your best efforts may be inadequate can be the hardest lesson of all, particularly for long term caregivers. When such moments come, you will need to consider other options such as professional home care.
Call Neighborly Home Care for 24-Hour Home Care in Main Line PA
Neighborly Home Care provides skilled and compassionate 24-hour home care in Main Line PA, as well as regular part time and respite care. Contact us to learn more about our caregiving options.