Becoming a family caregiver? Here are tips and resources to help.
As science and technology extend lifespans, our society is living to an older average age. By 2030, almost a quarter of the U.S. population will be over 65. As we age, we may experience co-morbidities that impact our quality of life and require additional support. One form of support that is becoming increasingly popular is a family caregiver.
According to an AARP study, there are 53 million adults in the United States that have the role of caregiver, and 89% care for a relative. Family caregivers can be spouses, partners, adult children, parents, or other relatives. In addition to identifying as a caregiver, these individuals are raising children, participating in the workforce, and have other commitments.
Many caregivers are not professionally trained to execute the range of tasks that may be required. Additionally, caregivers often feel like they had no choice in taking on this role. Thus, it should no surprise that caregivers report experiencing both positive and difficult emotions related to caregiving.
Aging is just one reason the need for a caregiver may arise. If a loved one has experienced a life-altering accident, is diagnosed with a terminal illness, mental illness, or disability, or if COVID-19 has ushered in its own set of challenges, more individuals may find they need to take on the role of family caregiver.
If you are one of these people, we have provided tips to help you navigate becoming the most effective caregiver.
First, what are some common tasks caregivers do?
Be a companion to combat loneliness and isolation.
Coordinate care and be an advocate.
Manage finances and other legal matters.
Provide non-medical services such as grocery shopping, cooking, cleaning, doing laundry, and providing transportation.
Help with activities of daily living such as dressing, showering, and feeding.
Help with medical interventions such as physical therapy, medication, injections, feeding tubes, wound treatment, and breathing treatments.
To be the most effective caregiver, follow these steps:
Learn, observe, organize
Learn about your loved one’s values, what defines their quality of life, and then document their medical wishes.
Understand their medical diagnosis and progression, observe their behaviors, and identify the skills you need to care for them.
Help decide what housing options make the most sense for them.
Be mindful of both the mental and physical well-being of your loved one
Organize all documentation. Peacefully’s end-of-life planning tool can help guide you through these tasks, which include financial and legal organization.
Learn how to get compensated as a family caregiver.
Identify resources
Coordinate with family members or close friends to discuss the care plan and identify secondary caregivers.
Identify community resources such as adult day care centers, home health aides, home-delivered meals, respite care, transportation services, and skilled nursing.
If your loved one is a veteran, learn about the specific resources they may be eligible for.
If your care recipient is 60 years or older, your local Area Agency on Aging can support you and your loved one with the following:
Information and assistance
Care management
Nutrition services (i.e., Meals on Wheels)
Legal assistance
Services for family caregivers through the Family Caregiver Support Program (FCSP)
Respite care
Prioritize your emotional health and well-being
Set realistic expectations for both yourself and your loved one.
Ask for and accept trusted help.
Prioritize your health by seeing your doctor as needed, eating a well-balanced diet, being active, and socializing.
Make time for yourself, whether that is doing an activity outside, meditating, or participating in a social gathering.
Connect with a caregiver support group in your area or remotely.
Seek professional help if you are feeling depressed, anxious, or burnt-out.