SOME THOUGHTS FOR YOU ON CAREGIVING:
If you are reading this, you may be considering how to provide care for someone that you know, and quite probably care for deeply. If you are like most people, you will have had little experience in the caregiving arena, with the possible exception of having reared children. More than likely, you don't really know where to start and what will be involved. You have no idea just how much time, energy and commitment will be required to see to the needs of a person who can't fully take care of themselves.
There are two basic things you need to discover before engaging in caregiving activity. First, you need to get a handle on your patient's situation and its long and short-term prognosis. Secondly, you will need to determine just what kinds of personal resources you will be able to bring to bear in service of your charge. Doing your research is crucial. Otherwise you run the risk of overextending yourself in an attempt to provide help and comfort.
Some caregiving situations are simple. They are usually of a temporary nature and require a minimum of oversight. This might regard the recovery from a minor injury, or some sort of corrective surgery. Other situations are more long-term and often require a team of individuals to achieve the caregiving goal. Expending great amounts of time and money are frequently called for in such cases. These involve chronic, possibly debilitating, illnesses and end-of life scenarios. And, of course, there is everything in between.
You must know what you are diving into. Caregiving can drain you physically, emotionally and financially. Even at the most minimal level, you need to understand that you will be making a number of personal sacrifices. You would be advised to find help to share the load and establish ways to take adequate care of yourself. Do not overdo it. If need be, seek out support groups and informational resources. These can be extremely helpful. Be sure to talk to people who have already been through the process.
I know, from personal experience, and from having heard others talk about caring for their loved-ones, that caregiving has the potential to take a heavy toll on one's being. It's a responsibility that shouldn't be taken lightly. In many ways, you will be absorbed into the lifestyle of the individual you are helping. Caregiving, though, can certainly be a blessing when it comes to helping individuals recover from their health problems. But it can also be a difficult and frustrating process as you assist those who are in continual distress and are fading away right before your eyes. There is always a battle going on in your heart between sympathy and grief. All I can say in the end is that you need to be prepared, and I wish you all the luck and loving support you can possibly receive.
Please use this informational directory to help you locate the items you will require in your efforts.
Best Wishes.
