Are you a family caregiver? Chances are, you may not even realize you are because you are simply doing what comes naturally for your family.
But the reality is that there are millions of people helping family members live their best life. This could include activities important for daily living such as bathing and dressing, paying bills, shopping and providing transportation. It also may involve emotional support and help with managing a chronic disease or disability.
President Joe Biden recently proclaimed April 2023 as National Care Workers Month and encouraged Americans to celebrate the contributions of care workers to our country.
“Across America, care workers help raise our children, assist seniors as they age with dignity, and support people with disabilities — giving families peace of mind and making it possible for millions of Americans to earn a paycheck while their loved ones are safe and secure,” said President Biden. “These unsung heroes strengthen our communities and form the backbone of our nation’s economy.”
All of us here at SYNERGY HomeCare want to shine a light on the 34.2 million Americans who have provided unpaid care to an adult age 50 or older in the last 12 months.
First things first: we applaud you. Family caregiving is one of the most stressful and rewarding roles that anyone may ever face. That’s why it’s so important that you take care of yourself as well.
In order to ensure you are providing the best possible care to your loved ones, pay attention to signs of caregiver stress and burnout such as:
- Lack of focus
- Irritability
- An overwhelming sense of pressure
- Disruptions in your eating/sleeping habits
- Poor performance at work
If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to consider respite care. Companies like SYNERGY HomeCare can provide help and give you a much-needed break. Our team of specially trained, professional caregivers provide compassionate care to clients across the country.
We are deeply proud to be recognized this April by President Biden. Everyone in our company has an authentic desire to help people and make their lives fuller. Our caregivers positively impact the lives of the people they care for and their families because they are genuinely invested in the lives of their clients.
Dr. Macie P. Smith is a licensed gerontology social worker who is focused on helping families support their aging loved ones through long-term care. Specifically, Dr. Smith educates caregivers on how to care for seniors with dementia. She is an advocate for specialized care and assists others in finding a way to provide a better quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Dr. Smith has dedicated over 22 years of her life working in gerontology and assisting families in finding personalized solutions for dementia care. For more articles by Dr. Macie Smith, go to https://synergyhomecare.com/blog/.
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For more information about SYNERGY HomeCare, visit www.synergyhomecare.com. Download the Family Caregiver Ultimate Guide.
SYNERGY HomeCare offers no obligation home assessments. Find a location near you or Contact us to talk to a Memory Care specialist.
