When you need support as a caregiver, where do you turn? The idea of a support group might be intimidating, no matter how much you might learn. But they’re not the only option for getting the support you need as a caregiver. Try some of these other ideas, too, and see how they work for you.
Family Members and Friends
Your other family members and friends would probably be happy to give you all the support you need. But they have to know that you need that help from them in order to give it. It’s tough sometimes as a caregiver to reach out because you feel as if you’re the one who is supposed to be doing all the helping. Rebuild those relationships, especially if you’ve started to isolate yourself during your time as a caregiver.
Your Own Doctor
Caregivers are often not so great about taking care of their own health, so you might not think about your doctor as a source of support. But when you let your doctor know what’s going on in your life, that gives her a chance to see how it’s impacting your health and well-being. There may be health recommendations your doctor could make that will support your continuing physical and emotional health.
A Therapist
At some point, you might need to talk to someone beyond a family member or friend. A neutral third party is often an excellent choice. There are therapists who specialize in talking to caregivers and in managing caregiving concerns. It might be worth a few sessions to find out how therapy could help you to feel like a more competent and effective caregiver. Even if long-term therapy isn’t the answer for you, you might find some sessions helpful.
A Spiritual Leader
If you’re a religious person and attend services regularly, you might find that talking to someone who understands those concerns is more comfortable for you. Religious leaders often offer some sort of counseling or talk therapy during their office hours for parishioners. Talk to your church officials about whether that’s something you can take advantage of on a regular basis.
A Home Care Provider
It may be that you need more support than an afternoon off or good advice. A home care provider can offer support for you in terms of respite and experience with care, and for your senior by providing companionship, ambulatory assistance, light housekeeping and meal preparation and more. Home care providers can offer the greatest level of support for family caregivers in that they can turn caregiving time into actual family time spent with aging loved ones, making memories.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering caregivers in Aurora, CO, please contact the caring staff at SYNERGY HomeCare today. Call us at (303) 756-9322.
