Suddenly You're A Caregiver. Now What?
Since the coronavirus started spreading across the world in 2020, millions of people have, without notice, found themselves in the role of family caregiver. Maybe their loved one’s paid caregivers became sick themselves. Or they left the profession to care for someone in their own family. But it doesn’t take a pandemic to throw someone unexpectedly into the role of providing this vital care for an aging relative. Just as often, a loved one who had been living independently experiences an illness or injury that requires more support at home. And suddenly, you’re a family caregiver.
Providing care for another person while also being attentive to your own needs can be difficult to navigate. However, it’s important to remember the wide range of resources and support available to help you stay organized and find balance in your own life.
“Caring for a loved one can be a fulfilling experience, and it’s often an opportunity to give back to someone who has given so much,” says Dr. Lakelyn Eichenberger, gerontologist and caregiver advocate at Home Instead. “But it’s important to be mindful of the physical, mental and emotional toll caregiving can have on our lives. By taking a moment to assess the specific challenges we may encounter and determine a plan of action, we can create a caregiving environment that’s beneficial for everyone involved.”
If you’re just beginning your caregiving journey, visit our website for helpful tips.
