As a Family Caregiver, How Often Have You Discussed Home Care Options with the Senior in Your Life?
Did you know there are over 44 million family caregivers supporting aging and disabled loved ones right now in America (Forbes)? If that describes you, if you are a family caregiver, you will feel the stress build.
The majority of people who become family caregivers take on this important responsibility because they think it is their job. They assume this is their responsibility, their duty to an aging parent, spouse, or other loved one. They don’t think of it as a job so much.
But, it is most certainly a job and should be treated as such. That means consistency is important. It also means that it’s essential not to forget who is in charge. Not you, the caregiver, but the client, whether it’s your parent, spouse, sibling, or close friend.
What can stress do over time?
Stress affects almost every family caregiver, given enough time. It can affect your own personal relationships, your health, mental health, and can even lead to anxiety and depression.
The longer you’re caring for an aging loved one, the more difficult it might feel. The more frustrated you can become. It can even dramatically increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other health issues for yourself.
That’s why it’s so important to at least understand there are home care options available to you and this aging senior.
What kind of home care options are available?
In most communities across the country, there are several. The most formidable and beneficial come in the form of a home care aide through an agency. Agencies often have the most experienced, seasoned, dedicated caregivers out there.
Not only that, these home care aides who work for agencies have a great support system standing behind them. That means if they have questions, concerns, or even doubts themselves, they can turn to their bosses, fellow workers, and other support mechanisms to answer questions and help them support their clients best.
Also, a home care agency is often much more flexible than an independent caregiver. That means an aging senior who is supported by a family member could receive help for just a couple of hours a few days in the morning. That can allow that family caregiver time off he or she needs to get to work, focus on their kids, and so on.
As a family caregiver, if you have never looked into or discussed home care as an option for this aging senior, now is the perfect time to do so. The more you learn about home care, the more you will value it and so will that senior when he or she is enjoying the benefits it brings.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring a Caregiver in Clark County, VA, please contact the caring staff at LivinRite Home Care.
Call Us Today at (703) 634-9991.
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