Caregiver Support
   
 



















Welcome to the page devoted to you, the caregiver. Let us start out by saying that your role is a critical and often undervalued one. We ask you make a commitment to assuring your own needs are met.  After all, you will be a better caregiver if you are taking the steps to care for yourself both physically and emotionally.

We would like to start by recommending that you read The Complete Eldercare Planner :  Where toStart, Questions to Ask, How to Find Help (Random House, second edition) by Joy Loverde.  This book is an excellent resource providing needed information regarding planning, financial and legal matters, safety and security, quality of life and much more.  Click on www.elderindustry.com for more information regarding this book and other resources.
 
Another highly suggested book is Baby Boomers Almanac; Health Wealth Wisdom; How to attain, secure, and enjoy your 3 most important assests by author Tim Brolus.  Click on www.betterlivingpublishing.com for more information.
 
Perhaps you would benefit from a professional assessment from a counselor, therapist, or your phyisican. Remember, for you to take care of others you will need to have balance in your life.  That means taking care of you!  A recommended sight for such an assessment is www.kolarinsights.com. Here you can learn about the role of holistic medicine in your life. A consultation that will not just provide you with holistic treatment ideas, but an actual plan of care that is based on your individual needs, goals, and belief systems.
 
Maybe obtaining a pet will help the quality of you and your loved ones lives.  There is a great deal of research pointing to having a cat or dog to love and care for improves the overall health of humans. Check out this adorable litterbox home for your feline friends!  www.LittterHouse.com
Be sure to visit our own pets on the resource page of this website.
 
So who is a caregiver?  They are mothers, fathers, sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, friends and neighbors just to name a few!  A caregiver provides basic care to a person who suffers from chronic conditions such as stroke, heart and lung disease, multiple sclerosis, accident victims, cancer, Alzheimer's and dementia plus many other debilitating diseases.
 
Being a caregiver can be physically and emotionally draining!  You may feel angry or sad most of the time. You may have increased physical ailments of your own as a direct result in providing basic care. After all, you often are lifting, bathing, dressing, turning, and feeding the person in addition to running a household. Many caregivers are taking care of their own children or grandchildren as well!  It is no wonder that caregiver burnout is on the rise.
 
What are some signs of caregiver stress?  Common signs can include any of the following:
  • Feeling sad
  • Crying
  • Feeling deprived of time for yourself
  • Decreased energy
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Change in appetite
  • Decrease interest in being with other family or friends
  • Anger
(It is advised, however, that if you have these symptoms you should consult with your physician as you may require treatment).

So what can you do to help yourself keep balance?  This is easier for some than others.  Perhaps a key component is having support for yourself.  Say "yes" to offers of help. Try not to take on every task alone. At the same time, learn to say "no" when appropriate. Think twice before agreeing to do something that you may not have the time, energy, or desire to do.
 
Take good care of your health!!!  Remember the phrase, " an ounce of prevention is worth of pound of cure?" Keep up on your doctor and dental visits. Be educated on wellness. 
.
Consider joining a support group.  Even if you feel you do not have the time to devote to it, consider that you may be further ahead in terms of your own mental well being with the support given from a group.  Hearing what others are experiencing can be a way to validate and share  stresses you may have.   Refer to our Resource page for information that may pertain to your needs.
 
Continue to check our website for changes and updates.  We are committed to providing a service to our customers discounted priced products, free information, and support.  Thank you for all you do for others.  Remember to be good to yourself!