Today more than 65 million caregivers in our country provide a vital service to others every day of the year. As the National Family Caregivers Association points out, these individuals are in a better position to ensure continuity of care. They are familiar with each patient and know what to expect of the person being cared for, what his or her dietary requirements are, the medications prescribed by a physician, and the exercises necessary to maintain a degree normalcy. In our country, caregivers range from neighbors, partners, friends, and family to home health aids, physical therapists, occupational therapists and more.
That’s why in 1997 President Bill Clinton signed the first presidential proclamation to recognize those individuals as a vital part of the health care team. This single issue may be the one function that Democrats and Republicans alike are able to agree upon these days.
Some of the duties a caregiver might provide could be assistance with eating, shopping for food, house cleaning, providing emotional support, reading aloud, sharing quality time, assisting with bathing and dressing, being a part of the Hospice program, and offering emotional support. What is a simple task for one individual might be monumental for an another. On the upside is the overwhelming feeling of satisfaction when that person can smile, be grateful, and lets you know your efforts are appreciated. As recent television ads indicate, seeing the look on that person’s face — priceless!
While care giving is vital and extremely rewarding, there are important downside issues that cannot be overlooked. At the top of the list is stress coupled with depression that together can lead to increased health risks for the caregiver. Blood pressure levels can rise, arthritis pain can flare up, the risk of heart attack can increase, and acid reflux may become a problem. In fact, a recent study revealed that 72% of caregivers fail to get sufficient exercise and they may not eat properly, either. Perhaps this is because so much time is devoted to the patient that the individual providing the care may be setting him or herself up for future problems.
Seeking and accepting outside help is vital for the sake of everyone involved. As much as a caregiver might feel he or she is letting someone down, may not be doing as much as possible or could be capable of more, there should be no shame in seeking help. This doesn’t have to be full-time, but an hour or two each day or week may allow the individual to take a trip to the grocery store, see a movie, or to walk around the block. The type of diversion doesn’t matter, but the actual act itself does. The caregiver will be in a better frame of mind and will actually provide better care to the patient in the long run. If finances are a concern and a family member may not be able to pay for outside help, perhaps a type of barter with a neighbor can be worked out. For example, doing garden chores, cutting the grass, pulling weeds, or hanging out the laundry might offset a half hour or longer of caring for someone who is infirmed.
Personal health on both ends of the spectrum cannot be ignored, nor can it be underestimated. So, caregivers, revel in your ability to help but stay well by seeking help when necessary.