Calling All Caregivers!

Are you a caregiver? Are you taking care of a loved one, relative or friend? How long have you been a caregiver? The following are some tips and advice that you should keep in mind when being a caregiver.

The first is Take care of yourself first. What do I mean by that? Whether you realize it or not care giving takes a big toll on your body and mind. So, you always need to check on yourself first each day and evaluate your physical and mental condition. Remember! You can't take care of someone else if you yourself is falling apart. And, it's not fair to the person who you are taking care of. He/she will be worried about your physical/mental well being whether you realize it or not.

Find a emergency replacement. In a perfect world nothing ever happens that can take our attention away from taking care of our loved ones. Even a single situation can cause havoc with your care giving responsibilities. Not having a emergency replacement caregiver could possibly put your loved one in danger. Especially if he/she has special needs and/or feeding requirements. And, don't be foolish in thinking that there will never be a emergency or a reason why you can't be there for them. Things happen. Find a replacement who can easily step in to care for that person or can be trained to perform the daily duties. Also, it will be better if that person lives close to your loved one. This is beneficial if there is a snow storm.

Don't fall off of the face of the Earth! Think about what you were doing before you became a caregiver. Did you have a social life? Did you have a hobby? Are you turning down social engagements with others more often? I realize that it is very difficult to have a social life when taking care of a loved one. But, you need to have You TIME. The time you spend being yourself with others is extremely important to your mental happiness. Everyone needs a night or day out to have some fun. Even if it is for a short while. So, don't forget to go out and have some fun when the opportunity comes around.

Get help if you can no longer be a caregiver. This may be one of the most difficult situations a caregiver can be faced with. Lets say that recently you have noticed that the person you are taking care of needs more assistance or supervision when you are not there. Because of their condition or disability certain individuals will suffer a decline in health whether physical or mental. If you find yourself doubting if this individual is safe and/or able to be left alone without your supervision than its time to take action. Call your local government agency to see what services are available. Depending on the level of need of the person you take care of will dictate what services should be provided. Even if the person says that they will be OK and you see that they may not, you need to do something. If you don't do something about the situation and something happens, can you live with that? Don't set yourself up for that mental anguish.

To all caregivers! You are needed, appreciated and honored by many! Stay healthy and happy!