Caregiving, for a loved one may be the toughest job you will ever undertake. The struggle to provide quality care, make care decisions, and meet the needs of the parent or loved one are often constant and overwhelming.
That struggle will be lost if a caregiver becomes burnt-out and no longer able to provide the care for the family member. Check your stress by taking the test below.
Caregiver Stress Test
Answer the questions below using the most appropriate word(s): Seldom, Sometimes, Often, Usually True, Always True
I find I can't get enough rest
I don't have enough time for myself.
I don't have time to be with other family members beside the person I care for.
I feel guilty about my situation.
I don't get out much anymore.
I have conflict with the person I care for.
I have conflict with other family members.
I cry every day.
I don't feel I have enough knowledge or experience to give
If the response to one or more of these areas is 'Usually True' or 'Always True' it may be time to begin looking for help with caring for your parent or loved one. Contact us today and let us show you how we can help.
You may be helped with the stressors of care giving by observing the Caregiver's Rights.
Caregiver's Rights
You the caregiver have the right to:
Decide when to help and when not to help
Assess how much expertise, time, or money you can give
Set attainable goals
Find the balance between family, work and caregiving
Treat yourself at least as well as the person for whom you are caring
Create space that is just for you PLAY
LAUGH as much as possible
Enlist the help of others
Please find attached links to articles that can help in dealing with caregiver stress:
Additionally we have a lending library located at our office that can help you in finding answers and preparing for caring for your loved ones. Planning for the future is the best way for you to be able to handle the associated stresses with caregiving.
Contact us today to find out how we can help through our lending library in coping with stress or our caregiving services to help your reduce your stress and provide respite assistance for you and your loved one.
