Being a Caregiver in 2020

In 2020, as life expectancy continues to increase, medical treatments continue to advance, and there is an ever-increasing number of people living long and meaningful lives with chronic illness and disabilities, many of us find ourselves either directly caring for or overseeing care for a loved one at home.

Whether you’re taking care of an aging parent, a disabled
spouse, or a child with a special need, providing care for a family member in
need is an act of selfless love that comes with many challenges. Although it
may feel overwhelming at times, you really do not have to be a medical expert
or a superhero to be a good caregiver. Moreover, you are not a failure if you
seek respite, support or guidance. In fact, those that do seek support are
often more effective caregivers and do not have to feel they are sacrificing
their lives in the process, making it a more rewarding experience for both the
caregiver and the patient.

Though we recognize that it’s often easier said than done
from those on the outside of a special circumstance looking in, there are some
tips and tools that may help you get the support you need while caring for
someone you love in way that can benefit both of you.

1. Take the time to learn as much as you can about your loved one’s situation and how
   to care for it. The more you know, the less anxiety you’ll feel about your new
   role and the more effective you’ll be.
2. Utilize support
   groups to seek out other caregivers, whether through face-to-face or online.
   There is a certain level of comfort that goes along with giving and receiving
   support from others who understand exactly what you’re going through.
3. Know your limit
   and be honest with those involved. It’s important to be realistic about how
   much of your time you can give and when you’re going to need added support –
   there is no shame in that.  
4. Support and encourage your loved one’s independence. Being a caregiver does
   not mean you have to everything for your loved one. Often, a wider range of independence
   will lengthen and strengthen someone’s quality of life
5. Trust
   your instincts – that doesn’t mean you should ever ignore the recommendations
   or diagnoses from a medical professional but listen to your gut, too – doctors can
   make mistakes and you need to feel comfortable advocating for yourself and your
   loved one.
6. Accept
   your feelings and do not feel guilty for having them – this can be an
   overwhelming experience and it is ok to have wavering emotions – just recognize
   that the right support for your situation may help you through it.

The American Society on Aging posted a list of 25 organizations that take care of the caregivers. Consider consulting this list and finding a group or organization that might be able to help. For more support with the hands on care of your loved one, you may consider long term care assistance.

Here at Premier,
we are a Licensed Home Care Services Agency providing long term home health
care to individuals by a licensed, bonded, trained and certified home health
aide supported by many long term care insurances, MLTC plans and private pay.

In addition, we are a Fiscal
Intermediary for the CDPAP: Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program
for New York State, where we facilitate payment for family/friends caring for
loved ones who qualify.

If any of the above services sound like something that could be of support to you and your loved one, please feel free to give us a call at 866-720-0124 to speak to one of our home care specialists! We also offer live chat options with our specialists on our website at www.premierhomehealthcare.com.