The biggest mistake caregivers can make is to assume something will go exactly as planned. When you make this type of assumption, you put your safety at risk, as well as the health and safety of your senior parent. Here are some of the most common assumptions family caregivers should never make.
Help Isn’t Necessary
You may be the strongest and most efficient caregiver, but you will still need help. The constant demands of caregiving can be overwhelming, and without help you could become mentally, physically, and emotionally exhausted. It’s important for family caregivers to receive assistance from others, regardless if it’s for a few hours each week or for an extended time. Consider hiring an in-home caregiver to step in on an as-needed basis.
Rhode Island home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
You’re Being Judged
The fear of being judged can lead to stress and anxiety. The truth is people may not be focusing on your caregiving abilities at all. It could be your conscience, especially if you are new to the role. It’s okay to make mistakes early on. Many caregivers assume the role without knowing what they are required to do. Not knowing everything about caregiving doesn’t mean you’re a failure. It means you will need to learn as much as possible through online searches, local classes at the hospital, or from conversations with your loved one’s medical providers. Don’t assume you are being judged because you want to learn more.
Your Loved One’s Health Will Only Worsen
Being diagnosed with an age-related disease can make life difficult for seniors and their caregivers, but it isn’t impossible to manage. It’s common for caregivers to assume their senior loved ones have a small chance of recovering, even if they receive the best treatment. However, your loved one’s health could increase over time. If your loved one follows the doctor’s advice and maintains a healthy lifestyle, he or she could slow the progression of a chronic disease or alleviate some of its symptoms.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional home care. Rhode Island families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place.
Saying No Is a Bad Thing
It’s important for caregivers to be honest with their family members, as well as their elderly loved ones. If you are uncomfortable about a certain aspect of caregiving, don’t ignore the issue. Putting it off is not a solution, and you should never assume the problem will go away. In fact, ignoring the issue could make it worse. If you don’t want to do something, be honest. Saying no doesn’t make you a bad caregiver. It’s necessary to speak up so you can find someone to step in and assume the duties you’re saying no to. Getting help may prevent you from being uneasy and allow your loved one to continue receiving high-quality care.
Family caregivers need to care for their own wellbeing. If you are caring for an aging loved one and are feeling overwhelmed, consider hiring a professional caregiver to provide respite care. Rhode Island families who want to avoid burnout can turn to Home Care Assistance. One of our professional caregivers can assist your loved one at home while you take a nap, go to work, run errands, or go on vacation. Call us at (401) 284-0979 to talk to one of our Care Managers about ways a professional caregiver can help your senior loved one age comfortably.