TIPS FOR CAREGIVERS 1. BE ORGANIZED! Keep detailed lists of your loved ones conditions, medications, allergies, and medical providers, as well as copies of all test results. A binder is helpful.
2. BE INFORMED Learn about your loved ones illness or condition. Ask your health care provider for the most trusted sources of this information.
3. PRIORITIZE Keep a list of patient care duties, medical appointment and household duties and chores that need to be done daily, weekly, and monthly. No one can do EVERYTHING, do not make yourself crazy trying, prioritize these lists and be sure the most important things are done first. The others on the list can wait.
4. ACCEPT HELP Keep a list of things that need to be done, but that you do not have to personally do. When a friend or family member asks to help, accept this and give them a task off of the list (picking up mail, groceries, prescriptions, doing a load of towels or dishes etc.)
5. INSURANCE COMPANY ADVOCATES Dealing with insurance companies can be confusing and overwhelming. Most insurance companies provide a nurse advocate or navigator. Call your insurance provider and inquire about this service. IF available make contact with this person and establish a connection ASAP as this person will be very helpful when you have insurance questions and concerns.
6. COMMUNITY RESOURCES Reach out to your local medical provider for a list of community resources that may be helpful. For example, the Office for the Aging, disease specific support groups, and caregiver support groups can all be sources of helpful information and services. You can also call 211 with any specific concern you have and they will also provide a list of local services.
7. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF! Basic needs: Nutrition, hydration, and sleep are a priority! Mental health: Enlist a support system of friends and family. Support groups are helpful, you are not alone. If you are unable to leave your loved one you can find hundreds of disease and caregiver specific online support groups at www.caring.com. If you seek support but are still feeling overwhelmed, reach out to your health care provider where referrals can be made for psychological care and/or counseling. Seek respite care when needed. It is OK to take a break!!
8. ENCOURAGE YOUR LOVED ONE TO BE AS INDEPENDENT AS POSSIBLE It is very easy when someone we love is ill to care so much that we want to take care of everything. This not only puts more work on our own plates, but actually does a disservice to the patient. While our loved ones now need our help it is important to allow them to do as much for themselves as possible, for their mental wellbeing as well as physical capabilities. Staying as active as possible is healthy!
9. FORGIVE YOURSELF IF YOU HAVE A BAD DAY We are all human. None of us are perfect and we all have a bad day. If at the end of a day you regret something did or didn’t say or do, please forgive yourself. Resolve to try and make tomorrow a better day. If you find you are having more bad days than good it is time to reach out for help.