Caregiving, whether direct or indirect, affects one’s mental, social, emotional and physical well-being. Caregiving is important work so, above all, remember to BE PROUD OF YOURSELF for the work that you do.
Description/Examples:
Caregivers range from professional caregivers with various titles (RN, LPN, CNA, Personal Support Partners, Personal Assistance Support, as examples), to natural support people or even the unpaid caregiver (i.e., family, friends, spouses).
Assisting, supporting, and helping people formally or informally is the role of a caregiver. Health, financial assistance, cognitive and/or mobility issues, activities of daily living, medication management, and social and/or recreational activities are just some of the functions that a caregiver may provide assistance with.
Caregivers devote varying degrees of time, effort, and energy to the health, wellness, and mental health of the person(s) they are caring for. So, caregiving can be intrinsically rewarding, but it can also be taxing and challenging at times.
Unexpected events accentuate the burden of mental, social, emotional, and physical well-being for both the person(s) and the caregiver(s).
What you can do:
- Take time for yourself
- Be aware of your own triggers or stress points.
- Take a break before you need a break
- Ask for assistance from those around you, remember: It takes a village
- Adhere to routines and schedules as much as possible
- Prepare for known situations in advance (e.g., refill prescriptions)
- Share duties and tasks by leveraging the family or other available resources (e.g., grocery shopping, stocking up on supplies)
- Seek support, encouragement, and comfort from other caregivers – you are not alone
Resources that can help:
- Caregiver helpdesk: 855-227-3640
- Other social supports: (faith/churches, families, committees, social networking)
- 211 Virginia: www.211Virginia.org Available by phone at “2-1-1”
- Deaf and hard of hearing: Dial 7-1-1 for Virginia Relay then 1-800-230-6977.
- Out of state, using a videophone, or a disposable cell phone: 2-1-1 VIRGINIA can always be reached at 1-800-230-6977.
Where to find more information:
