Many caregivers fall into the trap of believing they have to do everything by themselves. This can be a recipe for disaster. If you don't take care of yourself, you won't be able to care-give for someone else.
Two-thirds of caregivers work outside of the home. Juggling work responsibilities and caregiving can be an overwhelming experience. If you're in this situation, try these ideas for balancing your work and personal caregiving responsibilities:
- Learn to delegate.
- Share your work responsibilities with co-workers.
- Ask your company's human resources department about resources, such as support lines or referral services. Then make use of these assistance programs.
- Talk with others. Keep an open line of communication with your supervisor and co-workers.
- Enlist the doctor's help. Ask your loved one's doctor to send a letter to your company explaining the seriousness of your loved one's condition.
Even if you don't have a job in addition to your caregiving duties, you do have a life. That life may include a spouse, children, grandchildren and others. How to you juggle the caregiver duties and still have lead your own life? Here are some tips for caregivers:
- Avoid guilt. Feeling guilty is normal, but understand that no one is a "perfect" caregiver. You're doing the best you can at any given time. Your house does not have to be perfect. No one will care if you eat leftovers three days in a row. And you don't have to feel guilty about asking for help.
