Caregiving is a concept that is not just used to refer to professional caregivers such as nurses or home health aides.  Caregivers are most often family members or friends who have taken on this great role and responsibility.  Caregivers can be spouses, daughters, sons, in-laws or a neighbor who checks in on another neighbor.   Even more to the point is that most caregivers do not live in the same house or even the same city as their loved one that they care for.  Caregivers can live in nearby cities and different states and have the added responsibility of balancing long distance caregiving with work and locating resources for their loved ones. 

The theme for National Caregiver month is BELIEVE in yourself…PROTECT your health…REACH out for help. 

Take time during this month to recognize yourself as a caregiver and to put emphasis on yourself.  There is no doubt that caregiving is a challenging job and takes lots of time.  As a caregiver you are providing great support to your loved ones and family members. Believe in yourself that you are doing a wonderful job and accept the praise and thanks you so much deserve.  Most caregivers get so caught up in taking care of others that you forget to take care of yourself.  In order to be a caregiver for others you must be able to take care of yourself. Caregivers are very important to not only those people they care for but to society as a whole.  Caregivers are the main sources of contact and support for elderly loved ones and they are able to remain at home because of the care they receive from others.  Remember that as a caregiver your needs and wishes are important and taking care of your loves one is as important as taking care of you.

Another important concept is to realize that as a caregiver you are not alone.  Reach out for help from other caregivers and support from the community. There are several agencies to help you such as Area Agencies on Aging, National Family Caregiver Association and Family Caregiver Alliance. These are just an example of the thousands of resources available to help. Other ways to receive help is to reach out to support groups in your community and get involved. 

Below are some suggestions to help you take care of yourself.

• Take Care of your health, physical, mental and emotional.

• Find out what services are available to you as the caregiver and what services are available to your loved ones.

• Seek help before you reach the breaking point.

• Don’t be afraid to plan ahead and ask for breaks from other family members or agencies.

• Develop a support system for you that you can rely on through tough times.

If you have any other questions on caregiving resources, please contact your ElderCare Specialist Mariah Robinson at mrobinson@standrews1.com or 314-802-6291.