On my recent visit to Hines VA Hospital, I arrived early for my appointment. I got a coffee and sat in the main lobby in Building 200. What I observed while sitting there was both inspiring and heartbreaking. Veterans of all eras were coming through the lobby with their Caregivers. These wives, children and family members are truly angels. The respect, kindness and helping with the smallest task was truly honoring their Veteran.
I know I’m a couple of months early in promoting National Caregivers Month in November, but it’s important to recognize Caregivers daily. It doesn’t matter if the Caregivers are helping Veterans or the civilian population, they should all have your respect.
Here are a few tips that you as a Caregiver can do to prevent burnout:
- Learn as much as you can about the condition of the person you are caring for. Knowing what to expect can lower your stress.
- Ask for help. Feel good about the hard work you do. But remember you can’t do it all. You will need help from others. Make a list of tasks you would like help with and people you can call.
- Take breaks. Find some time each day that you can safely walk away from your work. Use respite care or an adult health care center or senior center for longer breaks at least once a week.
- Take care of your health, too! Get regular health and dental checkups. Ask about getting a flu shot or other health screenings you may need. Try to keep regular sleep patterns, eat healthy and try to do some type of physical activity. Your mental health is important, too. Join a local or online support group.Talk to family members and friends.
- Stay positive! Be realistic about what you can and can’t do. It will help you keep a positive attitude. You may not be able to make the Veteran or other family member well, but you can offer dignity and do your best to help them feel safe and loved.
These few tips can make your life better and allow you to better provide for you loved ones. As I said in my article title, “BLESSED ARE THE CAREGIVERS”!
