Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate: Dr. Cynthia Speaks!
Topic: The Determination Of A Caregiver!
Being a caregiver for a loved one is a commitment like non-other. You give up the life you once knew and take on life with uncertainties. You may ask what matters most to a caregiver. I will tell you that it is a true desire to make a difference in someone’s life, with compassionate care and support.
For anyone feeling overwhelmed by the negative aspect of what caregivers go through, the determination to get the job done is significant, being very mindful of the day-to-day duties, be it day or night. It is no secret that caregivers face many tasks and challenges, but with determination, these challenges are managed and balanced in the most meaningful way.
While caregivers give their all to care recipients, the determination to manage personal health is what we want to remind all caregivers. Ones’ personal health need not be complicated. But, as a caregiver, just as being organized is a huge benefit in the caregiving space, managing your self-care is mandatory. What can things be done in a determined way to remember? The caregiver must take the same determination used in your caregiver space and turn it on yourself. I will share a few personal nuggets:
1. Get some real sleep. When the baby sleeps, you sleep! Remember when we had babies, we learned real quick to sleep when they slept — an excellent rule to take on while caregiving.
2. Nap, even if you have to do it with one eye open!
3. Eat! I will never understand why eating was an afterthought for me. What I attributed it to was not realizing as the increase in care needs occurred, the less time I found to eat. But, I am asking that you learn from my lived experiences, and do better.
4. Get out of the house! Fresh air does the body good.
5. Pamper yourself. You deserve it!
As Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate, a determination is not what everyone has, but caregivers, in spite of what we face, staying committed is what I call…DETERMINATION! Be safe! Be well.
