Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate: Dr. Cynthia Speaks!

Topic: Caregivers: What is in it for me? Have you ever asked that question?

Caregivers, be honest…have you ever asked the question… why me or what’s in it for me? Giving up your time, resources, independence, and sleep is a lot of giving up. Wouldn’t you say? It is a valid question. We are humans of autonomy. We go about our day managing our personal and professional world, working to make our millions, having fun, going, and coming as we please…then BAM…our loved one becomes ill or has aged to where immediate care is necessary.
I am the first today to say the adjustment was hard. It was still hard even with my husband, sister close by, my children, a phone call away. I had to stay close to home. When your movements are controlled by someone or something, you take inventory of the feelings and emotions of “why me.” The uncertainties of caregiving can create much anxiety and doubt. I don’t know about you, but I have been struggling to live in this pandemic craze with no sign of hope. I can also say, staying still has not been difficult because of great practice as a caregiver. The pandemic has shorted my steps. Many are faced with caring for post-hospitalized family members from COVID-19, and many are long-hauler. There is no time frame on returning to independence with this patient population. It’s also important to consider how caring for a sick person might affect your health. If chronic medical conditions are attached to caregiving and COVID care, stay attentive to their health and yours!

What is in it for you?

Strangely enough, the caregiving piece takes care of itself. What is the benefit of caring for someone else? What comes to mind is “do unto others as you have them do unto you.”
I say all the time, “if they could…they would.” Let caregiving be your selfless act. Stepping in during times of need in someone’s life has no price tag. What is in it for you is the benefit of knowing you are a rainbow on someone’s cloudy day.

As Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate, I know you will answer the call to render help and support when your loved one or care recipient has a cloudy day. Thank you in advance for your caring spirit.