It takes a village to provide care for the frail and the ailing among us. The Caregivers e-Resource connects caregivers to this 'village'.
Every month we feature activities, products and services that guide caregivers on where they can get the support that is appropriate for their context.
The Caregiver's e-Resource offers a wide range of resources, including articles, tips and advice on caregiving.
It also provides support groups and forums where caregivers can connect with one another and with experts.
How you can plug in:
Advertise products and services that are relevant to caregivers here. Circulate this newsletter in your networks.
Letting us know of activities and events happening that would benefit caregivers.
Rhoda Wagaki - Editorial
Betty Murithi - Editorial
Alex Kamweru - Photography
Judy Thurubi - Design
Saimah Kermali - Design
Ndindi Nganga - Columnist
Musqan Butt - Columnist
I know that taking care of your loved ones can be a tough and sometimes thankless job but let me remind you that taking care of yourself is just as important! In fact, it's the foundational pillar of effective caregiving So, put down that stress ball and let's talk about some easily accessible self-care activities.
First of all, let's talk about sleep. I know it's tempting to stay up late binge-watching your favourite shows, but getting enough sleep is essential for your health. Trust me, a grumpy, sleep-deprived zombie is not a good look on you!
Next up, exercise! Now, we know, physical activity is marvelous for your health and gets you looking great in yoga pants. Apart from that, exercise your brain. Complete puzzles, play board games, solve jigsaw puzzles and even video games in moderation. Playing games can help you relieve stress and get your mind going again.
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Finally, don't forget to laugh. Find the ha-ha in things and situations. If you find that you need a trigger to get you started, consider watching an old-school animation series. Something that really works for me is joining a game with kids. Yes, permit yourself to play or silly dance with kids. The main point here is that taking time to do things you enjoy is crucial for your mental health.
So, my care friends, take a deep breath and remember that taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your loved ones. Trust me, they (and all of us at SuruviCare for Caregivers) want and need you to be happy and healthy too!
The Broad Definition:
A family caregiver is any individual who takes care of sick, or elderly persons, or people living with a condition, or a disability in the family.
A Healthcare Support Assistant is someone who has been formally trained to take care of patients in care facilities in their homes.
Carers usually bear the burden of:
Stress related to money, medical requirements, self vs other care, work other family needs, information overload of medical care needed.
Carers also develop trauma, pain, fatigue, grief, stigma issues, emotional overload with no outlet or opportunity to safely share their experience.
Depletion of emotional resources such as compassion, patience, anger management, kindness and joy among others.
We provide emotional and mental wellness support services to caregivers through psychological counselling and information-giving sessions.
The services can either be in a group setting, in-person, online or both. suruvi.co.ke +254 719571770
Call/text to book your appointment today. You also need care.
Health is a condition of total physical, mental, and social well-being and not only the absence of disease or disability, according to World Health Organization.
Caregiving is generally considered a social determinant of health for the caregiver. It's essential to recognize that behind every patient, there's a caregiver who is providing support and care, whether for the short or long term.
The well-being of these caregivers should be our concern as well. It must be understood that if caregiver care is not integrated into patient care, every patient becomes the reason why another patient is created - an unsupported caregiver.
REMEMBER, BEHIND EVERY PATIENT IS A CAREGIVER WHO NEEDS EMOTIONAL OR MENTAL SUPPORT IN ONE FORM OR ANOTHER
Therefore, it's important to extend support to caregivers by offering respite care, providing emotional support, and ensuring access to resources such as support groups, counselling, and education. We need to make a conscious effort to care for the caregivers who care for others.
The games we play with our emotional and mental wellness are often linked to our self-care practices. While it's important to prioritize self-care as a means of maintaining good mental and emotional health, some people may over-engage in "cheat days" when it comes to their self-care routine.
For example, someone may prioritize healthy eating habits and exercise as part of their self-care routine, but then overly indulge in unhealthy foods and skip workouts on designated "cheat days." While it's important to have balance and flexibility in our self-care routine, engaging in cheat days too frequently can be detrimental to our mental and emotional well-being.
We hold a monthly Suruvi Connection Cafe, open to the community, care experts and stakeholder to discuss, educate & resolve issues facing the caregivers.
Our May, 2023 discussion will be on the hidden costs of caregiving to the family.
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Similarly, someone may prioritize their sleep schedule as part of their self-care routine, but then stay up late binge-watching TV on a designated cheat day. While it may feel good at that moment, be intentional not to extend the 'moment' to points where it disrupt the body's natural sleep cycle, or undo the selfcare gains.
Another game we may play with our emotional and mental wellness is procrastination. We may put off important self-care practices, such as meditation, therapy, or journaling, in favour of other activities that provide instant gratification but offer little long-term benefit. such include ranting, venting or alcohol and substance overuse.
Ultimately, wellness is not only a state of being; It s also the act of practising healthy habits on a daily basis so you go beyond surviving and to thriving.
#Don'tCheatNoMore
My dad in my recollection was one of the most disease-free individuals I knew. This changed one fateful day when he was admitted to the hospital with pneumonia and a startling co-diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. Long story short, suddenly we needed to consider the services of a healthcare support assistant. As many families discover in the face of disease, mtajua hamjui. My family asked around and we were referred to a Martin fellow. He came armed with caregiving jargon and a cv. He was great with Dad and got him back to as near normal as possible given the circumstances.
That said, can you believe that he also stole money and clothing, and even a mobile phone from Dad?! But that's not what we are dwelling on today.
This feature will focus on professional and licenced healthcare support assistants, where you get them from, their roles and responsibilities and who's watching over them. With a new diagnosis or a degenerating ailment or advancement to palliative care comes a deeper level of vulnerability that can be exploited by characters like the one above. Families have an extra requirement to stay alert for unscrupulous people who taint the noble reputation of heroes in scrubs. The intention of the feature in this magazine's edition and the following ones is to share correct information that can help families have a better experience than I did with Martin.
Please share with us your experiences or thoughts on our email admin@suruvi.co.ke
A Healthcare Support Assistant also known as a trained caregiver is a person who has acquired professional training and education or certification in providing care for elderly, disabled or ill individuals. They are trained to provide a range of services, including personal care, such as bathing and dressing, medication management, meal preparation, and assistance with mobility. Healthcare support assistants may also provide emotional support, companionship, and assistance with activities of daily living to help individuals recover from their ailment, and maintain their independence and quality of life. However, it is important to note that the specific services they provide may vary depending on the needs of their clients and the setting in which they work. While family caregivers function within the parameter of the home and the family, healthcare support assistants are a whole system in the medical arena. Therefore, you can find healthcare support assistants in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and private homes.
PLEASE NOTE:
The level of care one can give is greatly influenced by level of care they receieve
It goes without saying that caregiving, whether it is paid or unpaid, is a hard job. The emotional, mental, and physical toll it can take on any caregiver is enormous!
This article highlights some challenges faced by healthcare support assistants in Kenya as shared with Suruvi. The article will also give suggestions on how caregivers can navigate through these challenges for their benefit and that of their carerecipients.
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Read more at:
suruvi.co.ke/heroes-in-scrubs-the-healthcare-support-assistant/
Families often find themselves in the difficult position of needing to provide care for a loved one who requires assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and medication management.
In many cases, families turn to informal caregivers, such as friends or family members, to provide this care. While this can seem to be a cost-effective solution, it may not be the best choice for the long-term health and well-being of the care recipient.
Sometimes families are better off employing trained healthcare support assistants instead of informal caregivers, even if it may cost a little more. Here are a few reasons why.
First and foremost, trained healthcare support assistants have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide safe and effective care. Those that have attended reputable institutions of learning, have been trained in best practices for medication management, infection control, and other important aspects of caregiving. This can help to ensure that the care recipient is receiving the best possible care, which can improve their overall health outcomes.
Secondly, trained healthcare support workers can provide a level of consistency and reliability that may be lacking with informal caregivers. Informal caregivers may have other commitments, such as work or family obligations, that can make it difficult for them to consistently provide care. This can result in missed medications, skipped appointments, and other issues that can impact the care recipient's health. Trained healthcare support workers, on the other hand, are typically employed on a regular schedule and are dedicated solely to providing care to the individual in need.
Thirdly, trained healthcare support workers can provide emotional support to both the care recipient and their family members. Caring for a loved one can be emotionally taxing, and it can be helpful to have a trained professional who can offer guidance, support, and reassurance. This can help to alleviate stress and anxiety for both the care recipient and their family members.
One year of clinical experience, with an average of 96% in patient care. Certificate in professional counseling. Practical care supporting dementia patients.
Post-circumcision care for boys.
Active participant in Suruvi hosted events, to stay updated with the dynamic ever-changing health and caregiver industry.
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The information published here is obtained from and reproduced as rendered by third parties, whose identities are disclosed herein.
By publishing the information, SuruviCare for Caregivers neither vouch for nor warrants the accuracy thereof and will not assume or entertain, accept or bear any responsibility, legal or otherwise, for any loss, damage, embarrassment or inconvenience that may be suffered or incurred by any person on account of reliance upon the information reproduced from such third parties
Suruvi - Care for Caregivers do not take responsibility for the quality of care that the caregiver provides. Suruvi does not employ any of the advertised caregivers. Only formally trained caregivers are allowed to advertise.
For families who hire a caregiver through this page, it is their own responsibility to interview and run background checks on potential caregivers
We want to keep this a safe caregiver community space and we invite your support with this.
You know when someone ’ s crossed the line and when they do, please let us know about it. Some examples of violations include but are not limited to:
Requests for money or donations, that are outside of the agreed pay
Harassment, threats, and offensive messages
Inappropriate or harmful behaviour during or after meeting in person
Fraudulent profiles
Spam or solicitation including links to commercial websites or attempts to sell products or services
Complaints/reviews can be shared with us at admin@suruvi.co.ke
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DID YOU KNOW? Over 50% of the calls we get at Suruvi -Care for Caregivers are from families looking for trained caregivers?
World Health Day reminds us of the different types of health we should strive to keep in balance. Keep in mind that the different components of health do influence our lives in one way or another and so it is important to prioritize each component of the wheel equally because over-attending to one can negatively impact the others.
For example, if you spend too much time and energy on your spiritual health it might take away from the other components of health on the wheel. If you spend all your time at the mosque/church this means you might not be spending enough time working or exercising. As a result, your financial and physical health may start to deteriorate.
Similarly, if you spend too much of your time socializing and trying to build connections this might take away from your mental and emotional health. People come with their own stressors and these can alter the way you think and behave. For example, if you spend a lot of your time surrounded by people who only focus on the negative aspects of life, then you will notice that your own thinking gradually shifts and becomes more negative. This can cause your mental health to decline. Therefore, as much as it is important to build meaningful connections it is also important to be vigilant about who is making up your social circle and how much time you are spending with them.
Remember that achieving balance in all components of the ‘wheel of life’ is a continuous process that requires ongoing effort and possible adjustments. It is important to pay equal attention to each component of the wheel so as to maintain a healthy balance of all which will allow you to achieve greater stability and well-being in your life.
Mental health refers to a person ’ s psychological and emotional state, as well as their capacity to manage common stresses, build wholesome relationships, and make significant contributions to society. Having good mental health allows people to be able to lead successful lives and they are then better able to maintain the other components of the wheel of life e.g., their physical health.
On the other hand, poor mental health can have detrimental impacts on both physical and psychological well-being and can result in a variety of issues.
High quality of life and general well-being depend on physical health. This describes the status of a person ' s physical health, including their capacity to go about their daily lives free from excessive weariness, discomfort, or physical restrictions. Physical health is closely connected to mental health and both are important to a person ’ s overall well-being. Regular exercise can reduce feelings of anxiety, and depression, improve one ’ s mood and increase their self-esteem.
On the other hand, poor physical health can have a negative effect on a person ’ s mental health by causing feelings of frustration, anxiety or depression. Balancing both is important to a person ’ s well-being.
A person ' s capacity to efficiently manage their finances and fulfil their financial commitments is referred to as their financial health.
Financial and mental health are two concepts that can have a significant influence on each other. Poor financial health such as debt, unemployment and financial insecurity can lead to poor mental health in the form of feelings of anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. The opposite is true as well. Financial stability can boost one ’ s confidence and self-worth as well as reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
Spiritual health includes a person ’ s connection to something larger than themselves. Good spiritual health helps to provide a sense of perspective and resilience in the face of life’ s challenges. Although spiritual health and mental health are separate concepts, they can influence each other.
Meditation, mindfulness as well as prayer can help improve both your spiritual and mental health by reducing stressful feelings, inducing feelings of calmness and relaxation and increasing one ’ s sense of purpose. Nurturing both can have positive effects on your overall well-being.
The term "emotional health" describes the condition of a person ' s emotional well-being, which includes their capacity to handle common stresses, control their emotions, and develop wholesome connections with others. Being able to perceive, express, and control emotions in a healthy and acceptable manner is a necessary component of emotional wellness.
Emotional health is very closely related to mental health. Having good emotional health can help prevent mental health problems and improve emotional well-being. Taking care of both aspects can help you lead a happier and healthier life.
Social health refers to a person ’ s social well-being. Good social health means the individual has a strong support system and feels connected to others in a meaningful way.
Having a strong social support network can positively impact mental health. Interactions with the community and social connections can help provide emotional support, a sense of belongingness, and a feeling of purpose to a person ’ s life.
On the other hand, poor social health can lead to isolation and loneliness. These can have negative effects on one ’ s mental health leading to depression, anxiety and low self-esteem.
PLEASE NOTE, a large social media following does not necessarily mean someone has a strong social support.
Play
is our brain's favourite way of learning and it's a great form of self-care for children and adults too!
Playing games can be beneficial for mental health?
Playing games can be a terrific way to relax and lower your stress levels.
Games can offer a distraction from daily life and allow players to concentrate on a job or challenge, which helps ease anxiety and stress.
Playing games can also improve your mood and make you feel happier and more content.
Playing games can assist to boost creativity and decision-making skills, as well as cognitive function and memory.
As a caregiver, you are responsible for the well-being and care of another person. Whether you are caring for a child, an elderly relative, or a disabled loved one, you need to ensure that their needs are being met and that their rights are being protected. This is where a lawyer can be invaluable.
One of the main reasons you need a lawyer as a caregiver is to protect your loved one's legal rights. An attorney can help you navigate complex legal issues, such as healthcare decisions, guardianship, and estate planning. They can also help you understand your loved one's legal rights and advocate for them when necessary. For example, if your loved one is being mistreated or neglected in a care facility, a lawyer can help you take legal action to protect them.
Another reason you need a lawyer is to ensure that your loved one's financial affairs are in order. A lawyer can help you with tasks such as creating a will, setting up a trust, and managing your loved one's finances. They can also help you understand the legal implications of financial decisions, such as transferring assets or applying for government benefits.
A lawyer can also help you with legal issues that may arise between you and other family members or caregivers. For example, if there is a dispute over the care of your loved one or their assets, a lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and protect your loved one's interests.
Finally, a lawyer can provide peace of mind. Knowing that you have an experienced legal professional on your side can be a great comfort when you are facing complex legal issues as a caregiver. With a lawyer's help, you can focus on providing the best possible care for your loved one, knowing that their legal rights and interests are being protected
Ndindi Ng'ang'a An Advocate of The High Court of Kenya
Ndindi & Nadida Advocates LLP is a law firm which is premised on the ethos of legal humanitarianism: [Legal humanitarianism is the use of legal knowledge, skills and expertise to improve the conditions of humanity.] We prefer to think of ourselves as practicing humanitarianism in all matters that we handle.
https://www.ndindi-nadidaadvocates.com/
Got questions? Or do you need specific assistance from an advocate?
Dear Mothers who are Caregivers,
On this special day, the management and team at Suruvi - Care for Caregivers express heartfelt gratitude and admiration for all that you do.
You are the unsung heroes who work tirelessly to care for your loved ones, whether it be your children, elderly parents, or a family member with a chronic illness or disability.
We note your sacrifices, your kindness, courage, compassion, generosity and love as you juggle countless responsibilities.
Your unwavering commitment to your loved ones is nothing short of heroic.
Thank you for being the superheroes that you are. Happy Mother's Day to all the amazing caregivers out there.
Behind every disease is a family caregiver or healthcare support assistant who is providing support and care to a loved one or patient.
The entire team at Suruvi - Care for Caregivers recognizes this and salutes every care provider represented by every disease, condition, disability or frailty.
We know that this work of heart can get heavy, isolating, and overwhelming. Being in the face of pain and malfunction requires regular refuelling of inner resources.
We take your self-care seriously and are here to support you.
Support can take many forms, including counselling and education on self-management and self-care.
MAY15thINTERNATIONAL DAYOFFAMILIES
Support can also be a friend or relative reaching out on behalf of a caregiver to sponsor them to therapy or any of our events. See Adopt A Caregiver – Suruvi – Care for Caregivers.
Reach out to us. Tusaidiane juu life ni harambee.
The stressors and rigours of caring for a loved one can wear one down. Additionally, goodbyes and adjusting to the new normal from the caregiving role can sometimes be challenging and seem impossible.
The process and experience are different for everyone. Emotional and mental support is available to help you cope. Click the link below to book an appointment; Appointment /Suruvi /Care for Caregivers
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Healthcare Support Assistants have been an unregulated cadre in the healthcare industry.
This is changing now.
Get information about The KENYA ASSOCIATION OF HEALTHCARE SUPPORT ASSISTANTS (KAHSA) and the process of getting yourself licenced by the Ministry of health in June 2023 edition of the Caregiver's eResource
In the long run, selfcare enhances order in your life and costs less than chaos (disorder)
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