What does it mean to be a ‘caregiver’?

At some point in our lives, we may all face the challenge of caring for someone we love, whether it be an ill child or an aging parent. It can be stressful and difficult work, and all too often we find the need to give care forces us to set aside other parts of our lives. Without help, it becomes harder and harder to maintain balance in your life.

A while back, Lawrence University in Appleton, WI posted a set of tips for caregivers caught in the challenge of having to juggle jobs, family and personal time. Their suggestions:

• Ask for help. Don’t be afraid to reach out to family and friends for assistance. Flower recognizes this need, and makes it easy to let people know what you need with “I Could Use”.
• Seek out support. Don’t hold it all inside but find someone to talk to about your experience.
• Set priorities, expectations and limits. You can’t do it all so be kind to yourself. Ask for help (see above).
• Seek out local resources. Whether it’s agency support, transportation assistance, or meal deliveries, find ways to take some of the burden off your shoulders.
• Take care of yourself. Exercise, eat well and get enough sleep and fun time.

Even after acting on these common-sense suggestions, you may find you need to call in a professional. If you find yourself in that position you might want to take a look at Honor, an online service that connects people who need help with professional caregivers.