Family caregivers are good at putting others first. As the demands for caregiving increase, their own needs often get pushed aside. Caregivers can quickly become exhausted, overwhelmed and burnt-out. Before this happens, it is important that caregivers take time to relax and rejuvenate. As the person who receives the care, thank your family member and give back by encouraging him or her to take time to replenish. Here are some ideas:

1.    Say thank you:  A simple recognition of their time and effort is often enough to make family caregivers feel appreciated. You could say to them, “Thank you for doing all that you do for me” or “Thank you for being there for me. I know you have many other demands in your life.”

2.    Encourage your caregiver to attend a support group. Although friends and family can be supportive, sharing feelings with strangers can sometimes be easier, especially if those strangers can relate to a situation. There are caregiver support groups available through most caregiver support organizations, as well as through many of the disease-specific organizations, such as the Alzheimer Society. Many are listed on the FCNS website at www.familycaregiversnetwork.org.

3.    Share the care. If you are able to, help co-ordinate with family and friends to take some duties off the caregiver’s hands or ask another family member to do this for you. If everyone takes one task, the impact can be huge. Arrange for someone to relieve your caregiver for extended periods. They may be resistant to sharing the care because they feel responsible or obligated to do it all. Ensure them that you are okay with other people’s help and that you want them to take some time for themselves.

4.    Prioritize. Help your caregiver determine what tasks are unnecessary or less important. Family caregivers often want to do it all and may need “permission” to let go of tasks without feeling they are failing you.

5.    Arrange for help with errands and chores. Household chores and daily errands can get pushed aside by the more essential requirements of caregiving. Arrange for others to help with these or, if possible, pay someone to do them. Groceries can be ordered online and delivered. Neighbours or members of your church could bring in meals.

6.    Give the gift of relaxation. Treat your caregiver to a manicure, massage or other relaxing pleasure. If finances are a concern, allow others to chip in. Local massage or aesthetic schools often offer services at reduced prices.

7.    Take time to have some fun and laugh together. Spend time together that does not revolve around caregiving. Revisit your old relationship. If able, attend a play together or arrange for dinner to be delivered and stay home and watch a movie together.
Making the effort to show your appreciation to your caregiver can help them stay strong and healthy, and better able to care for you for as long as is needed.

Next month: Caregiving During the Holiday Season

NOVEMBER 2011 SENIOR LIVING MAGAZINE VANCOUVER ISLAND
NOVEMBER 2011 SENIOR LIVING MAGAZINE VANCOUVER & LOWER MAINLAND