Do you ever feel as though you’re drowning in responsibility? Do you feel like you’re pedaling backward most days? Have you lost sight of your own hobbies and personal life? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you’re probably in need of some assistance when it comes to caregiver support.
Caregiver support is still a taboo subject in the family care realm, but it shouldn’t be. Family caregivers burn themselves out by adhering to the idea that they don’t need help. Want to know a secret? Everyone needs a little TLC sometimes. Support for caregivers of elderly parents and disabled loved ones is equally important for the carer and the cared for.
Busting the Myth about Caregiver Support
Why it’s important to take care of you
You’re not at your best for anyone else unless you’re feeling your best. When you’re over-stressed, over-tired, and over-worked, it shows. Disabled loved ones and elderly family members in need of care might start to feel like a burden or guilty for needing assistance. In turn, they might start to hide the true extent of their disability.
Alternative care gives you the time to take care of your own needs, so you’re better prepared to tend to the needs of your loved ones. It’s a win-win.
What do caregivers need most?
More than anything, caregivers need to know it’s okay to ask for help. There’s nothing wrong with calling upon your spouse or other family members to help lift some of the stress off your shoulders. When someone who loves you asks if you need help, don’t say no for fear of “putting others out.”
An adult day care is an important caregiver resource because you can still be as involved in your disabled loved one’s daytime life as you want. Contrary to popular belief, caregivers are more than welcome to attend day-to-day activities and celebrations at an alternative care center.
Taking advantage of caregiver resources is okay
Some family caretakers believe they’re not doing their job if they are not handling every task themselves. This simply is not true. Seeking the help of an adult day care for caregiver support does not mean you love your family any less. In fact, asking for help and taking a little time for yourself makes you a stronger support system for your disabled family member.
There is no one way to tend to a loved one’s needs. Taking the time to research alternative care options that offer your family member a higher quality of life is exactly what a caregiver’s job is. Don’t drive yourself crazy with guilt or bite off more than you can chew.
In Need of Caregiver Support?
Are you looking for an adult day care that will care for your special family member the same way you do? Contact Nevada Adult Day Healthcare Centers and find out why our clients love us.
