At some point in your life the time may come, when a decision has to be made that you are now going to be the family caregiver for your loved one. Many times, we have been doing the functions of a Family Caregiver without being aware and before you know it, the responsibility and everything that goes with it rests solely on your shoulders.
Being a family caregiver is a serious decision. The best way to embrace this role is to be prepared for it and understand how to assess yourself before taking on this role. Remember, don’t feel bad if you can’t handle it. It does not make you lesser of a person, but it does make you an honest person.
Am I physically able?
If you have injuries like pulled muscles, sprains or pains from overusing parts of your body for things like constant standing, squatting or bending. In addition to if you had hip or knee surgery or any major surgery, this may pose a challenge for you to assist in caring for a loved one who may needs help being lifted, or moved. This can put additional stress on your body and it is important to speak with your doctor about whether you are physically able to care for a loved one with these challenges. There are devices that can aid in moving the caree however, they can be quite costly.
How is my mental health?
Family caregivers can experience more stress than usual when taking care of their loved one. Although caring for them is rewarding, it is important to consider your mental health and your personality before agreeing to become a family caregiver. If you experience any of the following, you should talk with a health care professional:
Depression: Symptoms of this condition include; feeling tired all the time, a loss of interest in people or activities you used to enjoy, feeling like nothing you do is good enough, or thoughts of suicide. There are medications and other treatments for depression.
Anxiety: You might feel anxious about handling the extra responsibilities, worry what will happen to your loved one if something happens to you, and have concerns about the future. It’s important to talk with someone about these thoughts and create a plan.
Anger: You might feel anger and resentment toward your loved one, and that is a normal reaction. Joining a caregiver support group can help you deal with those feelings and understand that you’re not alone.
Guilt: Feeling like you need to have more patience or feeling bad for wishing you didn’t have this problem. Everyone experiences these feelings. Talk to family and friends about the next steps.
Grief: Family caregivers often feel grief regarding their situation. It can be emotionally hard to see a loved one regress and become less like the person they used to know and love. Therapy, support groups and extra help can alleviate these feelings.
Your mental health is important. The decision to become a caregiver should not be taken lightly. Regular therapy sessions and Family Caregiver Support Groups can help with this aspect of becoming a family caregiver.
Do I have the time needed?
Time is a finite resource, and you may feel like you don’t have enough of it when you decide to become a family caregiver. Your lifestyle will change, giving you less time for activities. Determining how much time you are willing and able to sacrifice is an important step when deciding to serve as a family caregiver. Although there are other family members, volunteers and healthcare professionals who can help out when you have other things you need to do. It is not always as simple as it sounds, in getting the assistance needed.
What’s my Location to my loved one?
How close are you in proximity to your loved one? Living at a further distance makes for longer drives and the inability to be there right away in case of an emergency and, has the potential to increase stress levels. On the other hand, living too close to the family member, or even with them, can make it difficult to keep your life separate from theirs. Your loved one’s needs and your priorities should both be considered.
Do I have enough Money?
Taking care of a family member can be expensive. You may have to adjust your work schedule to help your loved one. Family caregiving is also unpaid. It’s important to make sure you can stay within your means while taking care of your loved one. Talk to a financial planner and explore what options or benefits are available to you and your family. Have a discussion with family members about the cost of taking care of your loved one. Relatives may be able to divide up costs between them and reduce the burden.
How is this going to affect my Relationships?
The stress of caring for someone else can cause unexpected conflicts among friends, family members, co-workers, and others. Other family members and friends might feel as though you aren’t making time for them. Disagreements with other family members over the loved one’s care may arise and co-workers might feel as though you aren’t as invested in your job or as dependable. It’s important to be honest and upfront with the people in your life about what you are going through and their concerns in regards to your caregiving. Most people will be very understanding and even willing to help.
How is this going to affect my Happiness?
Caring for a loved one is rewarding, but it’s important to figure out how much responsibility you can take on and still live your own life. Juggling the tasks of daily life is often challenging, and adding the care of a loved one has the potential to make your everyday routine very chaotic. Have a discussion with the people in your life who are important to you as you make your decision. Friends, family and healthcare professionals should all be on the same page as you begin your new role as a family caregiver.
In the long run. Being a Family Caregiver is one of the most rewarding jobs you will ever have. It is a learning experience and filled with many challenges, but knowing you have been there for your loved one in their time of need, makes it all worthwhile.
Send comments to email ashamungal@gmail.com Or WhatsApp 310-2742
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Asha Mungal
Asha Mungal is the sole family caregiver for her mom, whilst simultaneously being a one woman show balancing her business Care Safety Solutions Limited. Her goal is to provide solutions for personal safety to the citizens of Trinidad & Tobago and by extension the Caribbean. She has a passion for life and believes that every moment should be lived to the fullest and, every person should never let a day go by without learning something new, no matter how small it may be.