Family and Friends, Community and Caregivers

Much of my healing occurred with the support and involvement of family, friends, and people in my community.

A meal train was set-up to ease the burden of preparing food a few days a week for several months.

A sign-up sheet was organized to make sure I always had a ride to and from rehab. My husband accompanied me to many appointments and took on many additional roles in our household.

Carpools were quickly arranged so my kids didn’t miss their activities.

People were eager to help. As a caregiver, my husband had to be encouraged to accept help initially.

Here are some tips for a caregiver navigating the recovery of a loved one.

Caregiver Considerations

• Friends and family want to help. Ask for and accept help. Be specific with what you need. For example: Will you stay with my spouse/child/loved one (with AE) while I run an errand? Will you go to the market/pharmacy for me?  I need you to accompany me to my loved one’s doctor's visit. I need you to keep me company, I'm lonely.

• Find a professional counselor or join a caregiver specific support group

• Avoid burn out and lower stress by practicing mindfulness and meditation, getting out in nature, and resting 

• Gather passwords and account information from your loved one

• Keep a shared calendar so you know their schedule and can give reminders as needed

• Install a tracking app on their phone to decrease worry

• Look into your insurance options for respite care or long-term care

• Financial planning – know your options, understand your benefits

• Be sure to have  a Medical Power of Attorney in place along with a Living Will/Medical Directive for your loved one with AE

• Know that you are not alone

Caregivers need support too. Remember that people will want to help.