CAREGIVING BASICS: HELP FOR NEW CAREGIVERS

The need to provide caregiving for a family member eventually touches most families. Volunteering to be a caregiver for others is a noble task, but it can become an exhausting task too. The negative implications include health problems, relationship problems, and health issues. Too often, caring and empathetic caregivers may ignore the warning signs of problems until it is too late, and they experience burnout. Research has revealed several actions that tend to improve the quality of caregiving as well as the overall quality of life of the caregiver. We know methods are available to enhance caregiving. 1. Remember, you can do this! 2. Be as informed as possible. 3. Practice self-care 4. Monitor Your Self-Talk 5. Engage in Planning and Goal setting 6. Learn to Communicate 7. Managing Stress The book applies to personal care, caregiving, family and relationships, medical treatment, and self-care.