This type of caregiving can be even harder than other types. Your loved one care needs are complex, frequent and long term.
I could say - Take care of yourself too, but realistically I know your own needs tend to become a lower priority during this phase of caregiving. I will say, try do something small every day! Even if its listening to music you like.
You have permission to step away to take a shower, or cry or just space out for a few minutes.
So instead of tips and resources for this blog. I’m going to offer more resources for you.
Do what you can and know there is no such thing as a perfect caregiver.
Resources
Respite Care
Respite care provides temporary relief for caregivers. This can include in-home care or short-term stays at a nursing home or assisted living facility.
Home Health Care Services
These services provide medical care and support in the comfort of your loved one's home. This can include nursing care, physical therapy, and occupational therapy or even just someone to help with a shower.
Support Groups
I will admit, this isn’t something that I personally took advantage of, but there are numerous support groups for family caregivers.
Some support groups are more disease focused like the Alzheimer's Association or the American Cancer Society.
While others focus more on the family member’s relationship like CancerCare Spouses/Partners support group or Working Daughter website and facebook group for women who are working and trying navigate elder care for their parents.
Hospitals and faith communities also may offer or know of other support groups.
Caregiver Action Network
Is a great resource for any caregiver at any stage of caregiving. I wish I had found them earlier.
Go to Caregiver Action Network website.
Palliative and Hospice Care
At some point your loved one may need either palliative or hospice care.
CaringInfo is a website created by palliative and hospice professionals to help you navigate these when the time comes.
Go to CaringInfo website.
Courageously Living’s Caregiving Support Cards and Journal Gift Set
Caregiving is hard. It can often feel like you’re doing everything wrong. This gift card set was created to help you acknowledge and ease your stress and frustration while doing caregiving.
Shop Caregiver gifts for others or yourself