Care-giving is truly an act of love. Care-giving is also an art.  A caregiver has to be decision-maker, nurse, personal assistant, friend, companion, chauffeur, chef, domestic engineer, activity director, accountant, and shopper all at once.  I have probably missed a few descriptions.  In addition, they need to have compassion and understanding for their care-receiver.  The pay in this position is usually poor.  You are on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  

Caregivers want to give their loved one the best care possible.  They almost abandon their own personal lives.  However, caregivers must be aware of stress, which leads to burnout.  Guilt, frustration, anger, exhaustion, and loss are just a few of the emotions commonly felt. 

Here are a few suggestions to help you.

• Find out what resources are available to you in your community.  Unfortunately, in the current economic environment, less government programs are available.
• Ask for help and gladly accept any assistance offered.  Maybe the help you’re being offered isn’t what you really need at this time.  Accept it – if you don’t, people will quit asking.  Also, a volunteer may do a chore differently than you, but gets the same results.  So what – is it really important.
• Know your limits.  It doesn’t do anyone any good, if you get so wearin out that you get sick or injure yourself.  Let others know that you need help.
• Take time just for you.  Take a long hot bath,  afternoon nap, or read a book.  The dishes will still be there when you get around to them.

If you are a caregiver, please e-mail me to let me know how you relieve your stress.  I will publish them to help others in the same situation.

 Call Judy Doyle-Martin at 586-914-4630 or judy@seniorchoicesllc.com. SENIOR CHOICES, LLC, located in Macomb County, Michigan will help you make informed decisions for peace of mind.  Serving Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties.