Consider these suggestions seriously. The better you take care of yourself the better you will be able to care for your loved one.
Take care of yourself
Eat right, exercise, don’t smoke or abuse drugs or alcohol.
Include your loved one in making decisions
Remember they are an adult, and unless they are cognitively impaired, they have a right to be included in decisions regarding their life.
Ask for help
When people offer help, accept it. Keep a list of tasks that others can do for you, and enlist family and friends if possible.
Take a break
Ask family and friends to sit with your loved one while you go out and do something for yourself. Inquire about formal respite services that may be available in your area.
Join a support group
Support groups let you connect with other caregivers who are going through similar experiences and who may offer helpful suggestions to help you in your caregiving role.
For more tips and hints, call (914) 813-6441.