Care for Caregivers
I’ve talked a lot about caregiving for seniors with Alzheimer’s and/or dementia. These disorders are a reality with many of us living longer. While these diseases are devastating, the stress and anxiety that caregivers suffer are incalculable. Mentally, emotionally, and physically, the role of the caregiver can be brutal. The caregiver often doesn’t know that he or she is simply burned out, until they get sick, themselves.
At best, they plod through the day caring for a loved one or friend with little to no time to reflect, let alone think, relax, and regroup.
The by-product is guilt, anger, and frustration. You love the person you’re caring for, but you have needs too.
Log on to the website of your local or state chapter of the Alzheimer’s Assn., and contact them.
After speaking with a representative of the Alzheimer’s Assn., take a few minutes to create and write down a plan of action. Don’t wait until your loved one’s condition becomes urgent and you desperately need help. Plan time for yourself every day.
Join me for more tools that make life a little easier for seniors.
We want to hear from you, so feel free to share tips, ideas, and resources for seniors and caregivers at Grannybooster.com. Email me, Maris Somerville, at info@grannybooster.com
