Caregiving & When It Is Time to Get Help

By CarePatrol of Idaho Falls & Pocatello

Caregiving usually starts suddenly and can sometimes become a long term situation. When a loved one falls and gets hurt or they have a sudden illness such as a heart attack or stroke that is usually when the family will step in and become a caregiver.

Family caregivers face several challenges; these could be learning how to give proper care for that loved one, dealing with emotional, physical, and financial stress. You also now have to balance the different dynamics that each family member brings. You have to learn to balance all these different challenges all while keeping your life intact and it can be overwhelming.

Some caregivers are grateful for the opportunities to provide care in the final stages of life. For others, this is not the role that they can fulfill. And in some cases, it can lead to sickness, burnout, and loss of employment. In severe cases there can be elder abuse, (financial, mental, or physical) which all could be devastating to a family.

In caring for a loved one if you feel trapped, resentful, useless, anxious, or rejected. Also if you notice a change in sleep or eating behaviors or just don’t feel the same then maybe it is time to ask for help. Remember there are people out there who have the training and knowledge that can help you and your family find the right care for your loved one. For more information, please call your CarePatrol senior advisor or complete online form and one will call you shortly.