The stress of caregiving is inevitable taking into account the dual responsibility of caring for the loved one and for yourself as well. Terminal ailments, age, and many other health issues can make a person dependent on others. While these disabilities are challenging for the sufferer these equally tend to test the mettle of caregivers as well.
While you might be stressed and finding no way out some of these helpful tips might aid to ease you into the routine.
Talk and Listen:
Two-way communication is key to better understanding and building relations. If there is an alteration required in medication, diet or daily routine always talk it out. Asking out your loved one’s mind will help you create a better arrangement for them. This will pay in term of increased satisfaction on both sides. If you feel there is lack of communication due to some health issues be sure to discuss it with the best psychiatrist in Karachi, Lahore or any other city of Pakistan. There always is a solution.
Encourage Self Help:
While you may feel tempted to do everything for them it is a good idea to leave a few things at their disposal as well. Encourage activities like self-care, eating by self and maintaining social connections in whichever form possible. This increases a sense of well-being and independence.
Structure your Routine:
Caregiving can be tiresome and if you are not organized it will add up to the feeling of doing nothing. Maintain a structured routine regarding medication, therapies and other caregiving activities. Having day long activities organized and knowing what comes next reduces stress and you can focus on other things as well.
Organize:
Living with a loved one dependent on you means taking care of a lot of paperwork as well. Make sure to keep all the medical records, prescriptions well organized. So you don’t end up blowing a storm every time you need some file or a paper. Keep insurance records, doctor’s contacts, and other related papers separately. You can put reminders for appointments on phone or keep these in written form.
Also Read: 5 Everyday Habits to Cut Down Hospital Expenditures
Track Medications:
Most of the patients are taking three or more medicines regularly to treat different problems. Carefully read the prescription and cross match medications to make sure you are giving right doses at right time. You can also use a pill manager to arrange medicines according to day and time.
Make a Diet Plan:
Cooking and house chores may seem like an additional burden when you have to manage these along caregiving. A little scheduling and preparing can save you from unnecessary stress. Get a tailored diet plan according to the needs and condition of your loved one. You can go for an online consultation with the best nutritionist in Karachi, Lahore or any other city of Pakistan via Marham.pk. Cook in large batches and freeze if you can for later use.
Learn More:
If this is your first experience as a caregiver learning a few basics and other related insights will help you a lot. Ask a geriatric caregiver or therapist to help you learn:
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- How to take care of personal hygiene requirements.
- Coping with bladder and bowel problems.
- Helping patient sit or walk.
- Lifting patient without hurting yourself or the person being handled.
- What to do in case of an emergency.
- What safety measures are required?
- Adapting the home for safety.
Don’t Forget Yourself!
Amidst all these responsibilities you are the one most important being. Keeping yourself healthy and encouraged is indispensable. Go for a healthy diet and regular exercise. Keep your physical and mental wellbeing at first priority.