In addition to caring for others, caregivers need support too

By Rachel Cox CONTRIBUTOR

When it comes to caregiving, there are a number of challenges to face.

There are also many kinds of caregivers, including general caregivers, palliative caregivers, as well as hospice caregivers. Caring for patients on palliative or hospice care that have more medical needs with life-limiting illness can be all-consuming.

Here are some ways of supporting caregivers who face those challenges.

Emotionally/socially. The emotional stressors of being a caregiver can appear endless at times. It is vital to have a good support system in place to help support the caregiver and care receiver. Having friends, or family or a health care entity involved is important.

The role of a caregiver is ever changing, day to day and week to week. Having someone to be there for you and help lend an ear or shoulder can be a game changer for a caregiver. When friends or family can come give them a break or spend time with them socially, that helps brighten their day. They know they have people or a person they can count on.

Financially. Whether you are a family or friend, you can help pay for things the caregiver or care receiver needs. This can include helping with groceries, helping with costs of living, or hiring private personnel, if needed. Sometimes between the care receiver and family, there are no costs concerns, while at other times people may need a little help here or there.

Resource programs. Resource programs can cover an array of needs, including financial, food, clothing and household bills, to in-home or placement needs, to emotional support. For caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s, other dementia, Parkinson’s, cancer and other conditions, there are support groups that can help participants process and have an extra supportive factor in their lives.

There are respite options as well. Families can hire an agency to come in once a week or more to give a respite break to a caregiver. When a loved one is on hospice care, caregivers can choose respite care in a facility. If a family needs help with a loved one’s personal and health care needs, there are agencies that can provide various levels of care, up to around-the-clock assistance. Self care. It is of utmost importance for caregivers to remember the value of taking time for yourself and your needs. If you are constantly exhausted, overwhelmed and/ or unhealthy, you can’t do what is needed to take care of your loved one. We are all human, and we try to do what is best for others, but we cannot neglect ourselves.

Weight loss with Tirzepatide up to 20% greater than with Semaglutide (Ozempic )

Introducing Pinnacle Weight Loss, an assisted weight loss program utilizing the widely popular and hard to find medication, Tirzepatide (Mounjaro ), to help you achieve amazing results! Our program will provide you with a safe and proven way to address stubborn fat for a leaner, healthier and happier you!

The Lowcountry's only Weight Loss Program offering the super med, Tirzepatide.

Call or Text 843.815.6699 to schedule.