It’s easy to generalize the term “Caregiving” when referring to Family Caregiving. However, the reality of caregiving is much more complex. As someone who has gone through the process of caregiving elderly family members, I completely understand the challenges you face as a caregiver.
It's totally normal to experience different phases when caring for your loved one. However, it's important to know that your journey as a caregiver will be unique to you.
Below are some of the most common phases of caregiving:
Acute or Immediate Caregiving
This phase refers to the time when someone is in the hospital, recuperating from short-term illness or surgery. It encompasses both planned and unplanned hospital stays or surgeries.
For tips and resources for Acute or Immediate Caregiving
Intermittent Caregiving
During this phase, an individual requires some care or is anticipated to make a full recovery. Examples of intermittent caregiving include accompanying them to doctor's appointments or preparing meals for them from time to time.
For tips and resources for Intermittent Caregiving
Long Term/Intense Caregiving
This phase is characterized by an extended period of care, which could last months or years, for individuals who are not expected to fully recover. This level of caregiving necessitates a comprehensive approach. It is typically associated with a decline in health, such as in the case of stage 4 cancer or an elderly parent.
Life After Caregiving
After your loved one no longer requires help, navigating life again can be challenging.
Your world has changed forever, and it takes time to readjust to your post caregiving life.
November is National Family Caregiving month.
I will be adding a blog post every week with tips and resources for each phase of caregiving. You can find links to each post on my website. As someone who has been through this process, I am here to offer my support and guidance.
