Being a caregiver isn’t an easy job. If you’re like most caregivers, however, it’s a labor of love. At the same time, it’s not unusual for caregivers to feel overwhelmed as the demands of the job pile up, especially if juggling other family and career obligations at the same time. Middle ground can be found by taking a cue from the following habits that all happy caregivers tend to have in common.
Knowing When to Ask for Help
Happy caregivers know that they can’t do everything themselves–and they’re perfectly okay with that fact. Seeking help, whether it be hiring part-time respite care in orlando or asking other family members and friends to pick up the slack, can keep your stress levels in check.
A Willingness to Take Time for Themselves
Happy caregivers understand that some “me time,” whether that’s scheduling an afternoon at the spa or taking a vacation, is just as important as being there for their loved one. In fact, recognizing when it’s time for a break can keep you refreshed and alert when caring for your loved one.
Accepting the Ups and Downs of the Job
Happy in-home caregivers in Prestige accept the good and not-so-good aspects of the job. If your loved one has a dementia-related condition like Alzheimer’s, there will be days when it’s pure joy being around them and other days when you’re frustrated by their challenging behavior. Clearly communicating with your loved one’s doctors can help you become more aware of what to expect.
Seeing Caregiving as More Than a Job
Happy caregivers look beyond the “duties” of the job and see caregiving as an opportunity to cherish time with their loved one. By initiating daily conversations and coming up with enjoyable activities you and your loved one can do together, you can minimize the daily chores you perform and focus more on the quality time you’re getting together.
Having an Effective Support System
Happy caregivers have a reliable support system to help with the unavoidable pressures associated with being a caregiver. Come up with a list of “go-to” people you know you can count on to pick up the slack on stressful days or friends you can call when you need to de-stress and focus on something other than your caregiving tasks.
Treating Loved Ones Like Equals
Happy caregivers know that treating a loved one like a child that needs to be told what to do all the time or scolded for inappropriate behavior is only going to lead to stressful encounters. View your relationship with your loved one as mutually beneficial relationship rather than a role reversal situation. It’s a safe bet to assume that if you treat your loved one with respect that they’ll do the same in return.
When families feel supported, the challenges of managing an elderly loved one’s care needs becomes more manageable. To find the right resources, reach out to Prestige Home Care Orlando. As a leading provider of hourly and live-in care Orlando families trust, we offer a wide range of comprehensive care services, 24/7 availability, 100% satisfaction guaranteed, and we never require long-term contracts. Learn more by calling a friendly Care Manager at (407) 232-7155 and scheduling a complimentary in-home consultation.