Have Your Needs Taken the Back-Burner to the Needs of a Loved One?

The beginning of summer is a great time to take a step back, and remind yourself that while caring for your loved one is very important, caring for yourself is equally important. The National Family Caregivers Association published the following tips for family caregivers:

  • Choose to take charge of your life. Don’t let your loved one’s illness or disability always take center stage.
  • Remember to be good to yourself. Love, honor, and value yourself. You’re doing a very hard job and you deserve some quality time, just for you.
  • Watch out for signs of depression and don’t delay in getting professional help when you need it.
  • Educate yourself about your loved one’s condition. Information is empowering.
  • There’s a difference between caring and doing. Be open to idea and technologies that promote your loved one’s independence. Don’t do for them what they can still do for themselves.
  • Trust your instincts. Most of the time they’ll lead you in the right direction.
  • Grieve for your losses and then allow yourself to dream new dreams.
  • Stand up for your rights as a caregiver and a citizen.