Life Balance As A Caregiver
You’ve got cancer.
It’s a heart attack.
She has Alzheimer’s.
Each day, people across the globe are hearing 
these phrases for the first time. After the initial shock wears off, reality sets in.
Who’s going to drive her to the doctor’s office every week?
Who’s going to keep her house clean?
Who’s going to make sure she’s taking all of her medicine?
Who’s going to make sure she’s eating correctly?
How am I going to do all of this, and work my full time job? And take care of my own family?
According to the National Family Caregivers Association, more than 50 million people provide care for a chronically ill, disabled, or aged family member or friend during any given year. The typical family caregiver is a 46-year-old woman caring for her widowed mother who does not live with her. She is married and employed.
And she is overwhelmed.
Unfortunately, this isn’t a job you apply for, or work into it over time. It’s usually something that springs upon you rather quickly, and something that causes immediate adjustment to your already busy schedule.
But there are things you can do to bring balance to your life.
1. Schedule time specifically for each activity. Don’t let your caregiver’s role engulf you. Schedule time each day for every part of your life. Talk to your employer about flex time, and see if you can work earlier or later hours, depending on what’s best for you. Organize your day to doing a little bit in all areas.
2. Rely on others to help. This isn’t a time to think you can handle it all yourself. Sit down and talk with your spouse and children about taking over more of the household chores. Speak with other family members to help out one day a week.
3. Don’t say yes to more than you can handle. If you’ve always been the one to volunteer for the school parties and to organize the fundraising drive, think again. Offer to help at simpler tasks that still allow you to become involved, yet don’t take the time or commitment. Never give an immediate yes; always ask for a day to think about it, and see if you can put it into your schedule.
4. Ask for help. Realize your limitations. Now more than ever, there are many ways to approach and complete your tasks. In-home care is a reliable alternative for you to ensure the safety and well-being of your loved one. An in-home care specialist can help with simple things like driving to doctors appointments, ensure meal preparation and clean up, or personal hygiene, including bathing and grooming help.
5. Find resources in your area. Check with your local hospital, doctor’s office, or senior resource center for more information. Many communities have resource books that provide you with a wealth of information on local care providers. Learn as much as you can each step of the way, preparing yourself for more difficult future events.
Jonnelle Leimbach is the co-owner and President of Adeste In-Home Care, an in-home caregiver company helping seniors stay in their homes for as long as possible. Adeste In-Home Care currently serves the Denver Metro area in Colorado, and provides a variety of services, including light housekeeping, meal preparation, medication reminders, hospice assist, respite care and companionship. Sign up for our report, 7 Strategies to Help Seniors Successfully Stay At Home at http://www.adesteinhomecare.com/
[...] Life Balance As A Caregiver You’ve got cancer. It’s a heart attack. She has Alzheimer’s. Each day, people across the [...]