Caretaking

Giving around-the-clock care is difficult, to say the least. My dad, as I have mentioned before, does a pretty amazing job at keeping Mom alive, comfortable and cared for. But things can get pretty tense (as anyone would imagine) when one's life is flipped up-side-down and the day to day activities and thoughts literally revolve around another's care. So here are a few tips for anyone who finds himself in the role of a caretaker.

15 Tips to Help You Care for Your Family Yourself

1. Eat smart and exercise. You'll be surprised at the energy you'll gain from choosing nutritious foods and finding time for some daily physical activity.
   
2. Get plenty of rest.
3. Be kind to yourself. Give yourself credit for what you do.
4. Set realistic goals and expectations.
5. Cut yourself some slack. Nobody’s perfect. Even the best caregivers occasionally find themselves getting impatient, stressed or frustrated. Learn to think about these feelings not as evidence of your failure but as cues that you need some time to yourself.
6. Schedule “me time.” Caregiving is a job and rest is your earned right. Reward yourself with respite breaks often.
7. Set limits and let everyone know what they are.
8. When people offer to help, accept the offer and suggest specific things they can do.
9. Watch for signs of depression, and don’t delay in getting professional help when you need it.
10. Grieve your losses, and then allow yourself to dream new dreams.
11. Learn what helps you relieve stress – keep a list and use it. Try walking, reading, listening to music, take up a new hobby, or take a nap!
12. Remember your spiritual health. You can make good use of your own spiritual beliefs to cope during difficult times. Many caregivers find great solace in meditation, prayer or time spent in nature.
13. Share your feelings with family and friends.
14. Seek support from other caregivers. There is great comfort in knowing that you are not alone. Talk with other caregivers at PH support group meetings, and try to arrange for a caregiver support group to be held at the same time as your local patient group. Also be sure to sign up for our email group for caregivers and other family members of PH patients. Join PHA Family now (Requires a free Google account. Please allow a short delay while your group membership is processed.)
15. If it gets to be “too much,” talk to your doctor, another healthcare professional or a member of the clergy.