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Caregiving Introduction

© Marci Stocks

Although this article focuses on the new caregiver, it may be helpful to all caregivers regardless of how long they have been providing care to their loved one(s). Also, you may not be a caregiver now, but would like to prepare yourself just in case it happens in the future. The caregiving role can be quite stressful, especially if you are thrown into the role, perhaps because of a sudden illness or due to a particular family circumstance.

New caregivers may have several feelings associated with the new caregiving role:

Anger

Caregivers may be feeling angry that there loved one is in need of care. This may be because the caregiver has to make extra time to provide this care or because they are just upset by the whole situation.

Frustration

Caregivers may feel frustrated because they do not know where to begin. They often have families of their own and now they have to learn how to care for both their family and their loved one. This can be difficult when a caregiver has young children living at home. Spouses may feel "left out" and the caregiver doesn't know what to do.

Fear

Caregivers may be afraid of not knowing how to provide the care that their loved one needs. There also may be fear of failing their loved ones. Caregivers want to provide quality care, so they try extra hard.

Overwhelmed

Caregivers may be overwhelmed by all of the changes taken place. Not only do caregivers have to look after themselves, but now they have to look after someone else. They may work full time, so this makes it even more difficult to get everything accomplished.

Tips to get new caregivers started:

1. If your loved one has an illness, it is important to learn about that illness. This is especially helpful when communicating with a loved one who has dementia. By educating yourself, you'll be able to understand how your loved one is feeling and will be able to provide better care.

2. Be patient. You are both going through a major transition. This can be difficult when you live alone and your loved one has just moved in.

3. Take things day by day. Try not to look too far down the road. Concentrate on yourself and your loved one in the "now" until you have become more comfortable with the changes.

4. Make time for yourself. This can be hard for new caregivers because you have so much on your mind. But, you do need "you time." Even if it means a 10 minute walk alone a day, do it. If your loved one can't be left alone, ask a family or friend for help.