As newlyweds our first home was what many would call a “fixer upper.” After tackling paneling on the ceiling, stuccoing the walls, laying “shag” carpeting, digging up a frozen septic system and much more I would say “I THINK THE WORST IS OVER.”
So, after a year and a half living with a pandemic, I hope I can safely say “I THINK THE WORST IS OVER.”
During this time you may have become familiar with the term “Caregiver.” It may have been your role or you may have wished you had one. Caregivers play a huge role in the health care system. Whether they are paid professionals, family members, or good friends, they are there when called upon. The role of some caregivers may be short term—for an accident, surgery or an illness. Caregivers in other cases are in it for the long haul, until the journeys end.
People always ask, “How is the patient doing?” But few ask, “How is the caregiver doing?”
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 cannot do it all. You will need help from others. Make a list of tasks you would like help with and people or agencies you can call.
- Take breaks. Find some time each day that you can safely walk away from you caregiver duties. Use respite care, 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. Eat healthy and try to do some kind 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 cannot do. It will help you keep a positive attitude.
Remember the caregivers in your life and ask them, “How are you doing?”
Editor’s Note / Jan and Mike Barbour live in the 5-block area that was heavily damaged by the tornado on June 20. Mike expressed his appreciation for help from Naperville Responds for Veterans to assist with his backyard shed that was turned on its side. The Barbour’s garage also received other damage. Mike assessed damage in a few words, “We were lucky.”
