Encouragement for the Family Caregiver ©2011 Diane Doering
Invest in Your Care Care-giving is a hard job…and one that you need rest from. Invest in your care by giving yourself respite and time away from the job of care-giving. It’s important for everyone.
Be Aware Just as those being cared for can sometimes fall into bouts of depression, or at the least, times of discouragement, so can care-givers. Make sure you are aware of your emotional health and seek help if you need it.
Receive Some of us can’t receive a compliment without saying “what, this old thing?” and some care-givers can’t receive help…even when they really need it! If you are offered a helping hand take it, and don’t be afraid to ASK either.
Trust Yourself You are closer than anyone else to the circumstances of caring for your loved one. Professionals are there to assist, and they are supposed to know what they are doing, BUT that doesn’t mean they always make the right decision. Trust your instincts if you have a question or concern.
Give Yourself Permission What really helps you? Is it quiet time alone or is it filling your time with as many family, friends and activities as you can? Every caregiver responds differently to the responsibilities that surround caring for a loved one. Give yourself permission to do what is best for you. (If hosting the holiday dinner is something that is meaningful, do it! If not, be ok with that.)
Celebrate and Grieve Throughout the journey of care-giving there are both victories and defeats. It’s important to acknowledge and grieve loss, BUT it’s also important to celebrate victories, both big and small. Believe that there is always something around the corner to hope for and to celebrate.
Build a Network of Support There is great power and strength in knowing you are not alone. (That’s why I wrote Finding Life in the Last Season). Connect with other caregivers. Join a support group, find a small group at your church, or join a network of caregivers online. Start a group of your own if you feel that you can give that time… you may be surprised at what you learn about yourself!
“Finding Life in the Last Season” is a collection of short stories and devotions compiled through over a decade of ministry in long term care facilities. These writings address the pain and loss of end of life issues in a straightforward way, but provide encouragement from God’s word in the midst of that struggle, for both the elderly and those who care for them.
To find out more about Finding Life in the Last Season visit www.lifeinthelastseason.org
Visit the author on Facebook: Diane Walsh Doering or email at dianedoering@cox.net
Diane Doering is the co-director of Threefold Cord Ministries, which reaches out to the elderly living in care facilities nationwide. www.thefriendsoftheforgotten.org
