Five caregivers who cherish our long friendship and share a passion to help other caregivers with practical, common sense tips while having a few laughs.
Arranging respite shouldn't be this difficult! It may feel like it's too much work to find a replacement caregiver or care home to take care of your loved one while you get a much needed break. It IS a lot of work but sooo worth it! Try day programs & skilled facilities.
Planning a trip? Before leaving figure out the closest hospital and urgent care (and pharmacy while you're at it)! Put it on your itinerary so you have it. You will hope you don't need it but you will be grateful you do in the event of an illness, fall or emergency.
Traveling with your loved one can be intimidating. Start small! Take a short drive through the country, visit a nearby park or zoo just to see how it goes. Pack snacks, drinks, medications and medical equipment in case you are out longer than anticipated.
Find small ways to bring yourself calm and joy and do those every day (or as often as possible). Keeping yourself in a good head space will help you get through the difficult caregiving days.
It doesnโt matter why life feels too overwhelming set aside those tasks that can wait. Believe me, there are plenty of them. Take care of yourself. #caregiving
There can be a fine line between staying informed and exposing your loved one to too much information. It can be overwhelming for them and they may not know how to process it. #caregiving
If you have a small emergency, not the kind that requires evacuation, who could you call to help you out if you needed it? The time to figure that out is now, before you have the emergency. #caregiving
When someone who knows you well tells you theyโre worried about you, pay attention to what they say. If you donโt want to hear it, maybe itโs because you already know thereโs a problem. If youโre upset by what they say talk to them about it. #caregiving
Memorial Day honors those who died while in service to the military. Veterans Day honors those who have served honorably in the military. Armed forces Day honors those currently serving in the United States military. #memorialday#caregiving
If you have to evacuate for any reason, expect that it will be for several days. Donโt assume youโll be able to go back home in the near future. This way you will have enough of whatever it is you need. #caregiving#emergencypreparedness
You have to take care of your needs in order to be the best caregiver you can be. Find more supportive and practical tips in our handbooks. Small enough to take with you to the hospital too! Link in bio.
Life as a caregiver is overwhelming. Think of one thing you can offload to someone else or that does not need to be on your to-do list. What is one thing you can let go?
Caregivers know their loved one better than anyone. Trust your gut and don't let anyone dismiss your concerns. Advocacy is a huge part of caregiving. You can do it!
Caregivers don't have much extra time but it is important to find time for fun! (Make time if you have to.) Be creative! Involve your loved one or just do something for yourself. It doesn't have to be a long vacation but can just be moments to help you recharge!