Helpful Tips for Caregivers
Supporting Loved Ones
Stepping into being a caregiver for someone – especially for a loved one – can be overwhelming. Your loved one may be experiencing a new diagnosis, an unexpected progression or simply exhaustion from dealing with the circumstances of their health. As a caregiver for a loved one, you’re both experiencing your own range of emotions as well as dipping from your own resources. Here are some tips for caregivers to help your care be as effective as possible for both you and your loved one.
5 Essential Tips for Caregivers
1. Make your offers of help specific.
It’s a common reflex to say, “Let me know how I can help!”, or, “If you need anything just give me a call.” But when someone is in need of care it’s often overwhelming to know what it is that they need or have the ability to verbalize it. Think through what you can do and offer specific help. Saying, “I’m available to come in the mornings from 9 a.m. to noon” or “I will bring dinner on Tuesdays and Fridays” makes it easy for your loved one to accept.
2. Don’t hesitate to ask questions around medical procedures.
You may be asked to help with medications, change bandages, and other minor medical procedures in your caretaking. It’s not expected that you’ll be a pro from the get-go. Ask other caregivers or medical providers for clear instructions, feedback, and supervision until you feel confident in your abilities. There’s no shame in taking the time to get it right.
3 Practice compassion (and know your limits).
It’s likely that your loved one is experiencing new feelings, both physical and emotional. You are not expected to fix anything. Instead, offering a listening ear, a foot rub or validation of their experience can have tremendous impact. At the same time, know how much time and energy you have to give so that you can step away when you need to. Burnout can get in the way of compassion.
4. Show confidence in your family member’s ability.
In caretaking situations, progress is likely to be measured in tiny increments (not leaps and bounds). Acknowledge your loved one’s shaky steps to the bed or intake of a few spoonfuls of broth. Meet your loved one exactly where they are and offer genuine encouragement for their accomplishments.
5 Start with the next right thing.
It’s normal to feel overwhelmed at the enormity of the situation in front of you. Your goal isn’t to accomplish everything, it’s simply to move the needle forward. You don’t need to be granted permission to empty the trash, wash the towels or offer a hand to hold. Oftentimes it’s the smallest gestures that offer the greatest comfort. We invite you to incorporate these tips into your loved one’s care. Paradigm Health’s experienced hospice care team love seeing all the ways friends and family members step in to support their loved ones during challenging times.
If you have questions or need any help caring for a loved one, don’t hesitate to call our compassionate hospice caregiving team. We’re Hoosiers caring for Hoosiers. Contact us, today.
