Taking Care of You: Helpful Resources for Caregivers

By: Batchelor Brothers Funeral Services
Sunday, August 11, 2019

Few people plan to be caregivers for their loved ones. It’s a role that often comes on suddenly following an emergency or evolves over time as a result of an ongoing medical condition. In either case, it becomes necessary to assist your loved with their care and daily activities. If you feel unprepared or overwhelmed in your caregiving role, you’re not alone.

The transition involves time and effort, and over the long-term, it can be taxing. Whether you’re new to caregiving and have endless questions, or are a seasoned veteran who’s feeling the strain, know that help is available. Check out these useful sites, chock full of valuable resources for all stages of the caregiving spectrum:

  • AARP’s Family Caregiving: Here you’ll find an array of information, tools and resources to help you in your journey of caring for a loved one. Experts provide information via blogs, webinars and one-on-one interaction through social media channels. The site’s supportive online community can help you connect with others who are experiencing similar caregiving challenges. To top it off, you don’t even have to be an AARP member to access this valuable information.
  • Benefits Checkup: Navigating the system of caregiving benefits is challenging, and many people miss out on aid simply because they don’t know it exists. The Benefits Checkup site makes it easy to quickly see what benefits are available in your area that you or your loved one are likely to qualify for.
  • Family Care Navigator: The caregiver support resources available vary based on your geographic location. The Family Care Navigator helps you hone in on specific programs and organizations that are available in your state and local community.
  • Lotsa Helping Hands: This site connects volunteers with caregivers in their area who need some extra help. Caregivers can request help via the website’s calendar and available volunteers step in to provide assistance with tasks like meal delivery or rides to appointments. 
  • National Long-Term Care Clearinghouse: At some point, you may no longer be able to provide the level of care your loved one needs. This repository run of information by the U.S. Administration on Aging answers a multitude of questions about the nature of long term care, who needs it, how much it costs in each state, payment options, and details about Medicare and Medicaid coverage.

If caregiver stress is getting the best of you, you’re in good company. According the National Alliance for Caregiving/AARP’s "Caregiving in the United States 2017" report, nearly half of all family caregivers say they’re “somewhat stressed” and more than a third are “highly stressed”. If you’re among them, reaching out for supportive resources like the ones we’ve outline above is a great way to start. Here are some additional tips that will help you reduce your stress levels avoid caregiver burnout.

  • Take a break. Everyone needs some time off—even caregivers. Ask a relative, friend or neighbor to take over for a few hours every so often so that you can catch a movie or go out to dinner. You might even consider forming a network or respite co-op with other caregiving families so that you can help each other out from time to time. The Eldercare Locator, sponsored by the U.S. Administration on Aging, is great free resource that provides area-specific recommendations for services such as home care, adult day care and transportation.
  • Consider joining a support group. Support groups can provide a wide range of benefits for family caregivers. By interacting with others who are in a similar situation as yours, it provides a sense of community and reduces feelings of isolation. These groups can offer information, helpful suggestions, and emotional support through the good times and the bad. Joining a group may also help you learn more about your loved one’s disability or illness, new treatments available, and legal or financial tips involving his or her care.
  • Nurture the positive relationships in your life. You may be overwhelmed, but it’s important to spend time with those you’re closest to. An evening with a loving spouse or lunch with a cherished friend can do wonders for your attitude and outlook. Try to limit your interactions with negative people who will drag down your mood and perspective.
  • Practice self-care. When you’re caught up in caring for others, it can be easy to neglect your own health. Establish a good sleep routine and allocate time to exercise every week. Be sure to eat healthy foods like vegetables, fruits, and lean meats, and drink plenty of water. Tell your physician that you’re a caregiver and let him or her know about any concerns you may have. Many people find that daily relaxation practices, such as guided meditation, yoga, and deep breathing, are also beneficial.

Caring for a loved one puts a strain on even the most resilient people. If you're a caregiver, it’s essential that you take steps to preserve your own health and well-being. If you need more information about caregiving resources, our compassionate funeral directors are always here to assist you. Please reach out to us anytime.

About Batchelor Brothers Funeral Services: As a leading African American-owned and operated funeral and cremation organization serving  three states, Batchelor Brothers Funeral Services has provided a ministry of care to thousands of grieving families. We promise to provide our highest level of distinguished service and respect to families who entrust us to honor their loved one. In all aspects of the funeral process, we strive to be the absolute best and are honored to help preserve our clients’ legacies for future generations. With three convenient locations serving both North and West Philadelphia, as well as Trenton and Drexel Hill, it is always our pleasure to be of service. Please visit our website for more information.

Leave a comment
Name*:
Email:
Comment*:
Please enter the numbers and letters you see in the image. Note that the case of the letters entered matters.

Comments

Please wait

Previous Posts

Choosing a Funeral Celebrant? Here are Five Important Things to Know.

If you are responsible for choosing a funeral celebrant, seek someone who can provide a comforting presence and navigate the complexities of organizing a meaningful service. Selecting the individu...

It’s Healthy Aging Month: Eight Practical Ways to Boost Your Wellbeing

This Healthy Aging Month, discover how simple lifestyle changes can unlock the door to a more fulfilling life as you age. September is Healthy Aging Month, a time to promote ways for people to sta...

Seven Common Misconceptions about Hospice Care Explained

Misconceptions about hospice care often stem from a lack of accurate information and awareness. The many inaccuracies surrounding hospice care create unnecessary fear and reluctance at a challengi...

Choosing a Cemetery Property? Don’t Make These Common Mistakes

Choosing a cemetery property is a delicate process that requires the balancing of emotional comfort with practical considerations. When a loved one passes away, there are countless decisions to be...

Celebrate National Wellness Month with These Ten Wholesome Habits

Celebrate National Wellness Month by investing in your health with practical strategies to boost your well-being. Every August, National Wellness Month provides a dedicated time to focus on self-c...

Attending an End-of-Life Event? Follow this Helpful Guide to Funeral Etiquette

Whether it’s your first funeral or you need a refresher, this guide to funeral etiquette will help you offer your support with grace and dignity. Funerals and memorial services are about celebrati...

Five Tips to Help You Choose the Perfect Outfit for a Summertime Funeral

Balancing formality and comfort is key when dressing for a summertime funeral. Attending a funeral is an emotional experience, and figuring out what to wear can be an added stressor. This is espec...

July is Healthy Vision Month: Take These Steps to Prioritize Your Eye Health

Celebrate Healthy Vision Month by empowering yourself with the knowledge to protect your eyes. Every July, the National Eye Institute designates Healthy Vision Month to emphasize the importance of...

How Much Do You Know About Silent Strokes? Eight Ways to Reduce Your Risk

Arm yourself with knowledge and take action to decrease the risk of silent strokes. Is it possible to have a stroke and not be aware of it? The short answer is yes. Silent strokes are stealthy, lu...

Six Creative Ideas for Hosting a Meaningful Repast on a Budget

With thoughtful planning, hosting a repast on a budget can become a cherished tribute to a departed loved one. The repast or reception is an important part of the funeral process. Bringing everyon...