Caregiving Tips
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, there are 54 million informal caregivers – family members and friends who care for someone who is ill. As a caregiver of a loved one with mesothelioma, this list of tips may help you deal with your very important role.
Do you awaken at night to help your husband to the bathroom? Do you arrange your schedule to fit your mother’s doctors’ appointments? You are not alone. According to the 1997 National Alliance for Caregiving/AARP National Caregiver Survey, at least 22 million adults provide the care that is so critical in helping older people remain in their homes and other community settings. It is estimated that 80 percent of all care received by older Americans is provided by family members – spouses, children, grandchildren and other relatives – people just like you.
In these pages we’ll share with you some of the wisdom and practical tips provided by the National Alliance for Caregiving. You’ll find ideas for finding balance and perspective, recognizing and preventing burnout, handling your role as a partner in care and practical tips on how to cope.