Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate: Dr. Cynthia Speaks!

Topic: Who is a Caregiver?

A caregiver is a man or woman who helps loved ones with daily tasks and activities. The goal is to allow our elders to live independently around familiar friends and family. Caregivers are kind-hearted and tender while providing loving care. They help keep daily plans in motion for the care recipient.

Caregiver responsibilities include administering medications and helping with personal care tasks, such as medical appointments, managing medication, dressing, feeding, cooking, cleaning, bathing, grooming, shopping, transportation, and many other essential duties and responsibilities. Ensuring you have all medical information if you must share this information in an emergency is imperative.

Communication and compassion are imperative as a caregiver. Many loved ones feel alone because, like my mother, she was the only remaining sibling of her family, and while she had us and family, she longed for her sisters and brothers. This is why showing compassion and love is so important. Further, if a loved one can do for themselves, let them. When independence is limiting to your loved one, it feels like a burden. Remember the importance of maintaining a safe and comfortable environment, and know when to step in or wait for your loved one to ask for help if they are able.

As Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate, know that when you think of the word “caregiver” they are the fabric of our society. Despite the setting, formal and informal settings, they are owed gratitude for the generous care they provide to loved ones and families. Be safe! Be well!