Giving Thanks to Our Unsung Heroes: Family Caregivers

November is the time to appreciate family caregivers and your dedication to your ailing loved ones when they need it the most. AARP reports at least 53 million Americans are responsible for caring for a sick, aging, or disabled family member.

With an overwhelming number of family caregivers, it’s fitting that we dedicate November to honor you.

Here are some of the tasks that family caregivers complete:

• Around-the-clock care and responsibility
• Balancing work, family time, cooking, paying bills, and cleaning
• Keeping a medication schedule
• Visiting the emergency room
• Canceling plans to be at home with your loved one

You may not give yourself credit for all your sacrifice to care for your loved one. It may even feel indulgent to consider it a sacrifice, but it is. Your dedication matters, and we acknowledge your hard work.

4 Tips for Caregivers

1. Prioritize Your Mental Health: It’s easy to forget yourself when caring for a family member. Feelings of grief, anxiety, and stress can accumulate and worsen when you do not address your own needs. Check in with your mental health so you can be at your best.
2. Take Care of Your Physical Health: Family caretakers sometimes cancel their doctor’s appointments and put off exercise and healthy eating for when you have more time. Unfortunately, life may never get less busy. Learn how to manage your physical health as you care for others.
3. Schedule in Breaks for Self-Care: Everyone needs a break. You cannot keep up with 24/7 care. So ask another loved one to take over for a few hours per week, so you have a planned time to step away from the situation and focus on yourself.
4. Share Your Feelings with a Friend or Therapist: It is always a good thing to speak freely to someone who has your best interest at heart. Voice your frustrations, even if you are feeling caretaker guilt. Let your friend validate your feelings and lend a listening ear. Sometimes all you need is to be heard and seen.

Sometimes asking for help is hard, but know that you are not alone. Bonita Springs Healthcare Services provides respite and peace of mind for the family caregiver, as well as compassionate caregivers for your loved one. Please contact us today to find out how we can help!