Caring for the caregiver

 

It can be a life-changing experience when a family member or friend is diagnosed with a health problem.

At AbbVie Care, our support extends to the person living with the disease as well as the caregiver who accompanies them in their journey.

Caring for the caregiver means making sure that you have the support to create the best outcome for your loved one. It also means that we’re thinking of your welfare. Too often, the caregivers’ health suffers. Many get so caught up in their care responsibilities that they forget to take care of themselves.

Whether you’ve just started, or are already on the caregiving path, consider some of these helpful suggestions from Mark Stolow, President of The Caregiver Network, to help keep life in balance.

You’re allowed to ask for help

Asking for help is not a sign of weakness and it doesn’t mean that you’re not doing a good enough job. No one plans on being a caregiver and it can be very complicated to meet all of the health care needs of the person you’re caring for on your own. There are resources available that can help you with day-to-day practical issues as well as coping with emotional challenges. When it comes to getting help, it’s never too early.

Planning ahead

Creating a plan with your loved one is a great way to help understand the road ahead and to feel like you’re making well-thought-out decisions. Talk to your team of health care professionals about what you can expect from the progression of the disease. Grow your social network by getting other family members involved in the planning process and connecting with people who have had a similar experience.

Take time for yourself

It’s often easier said than done, but finding a balance between meeting your own needs and those of the person you’re caring for is very important to your health and resilience over the long term. Find time to reconnect with activities, places, and people you love. Remember: being a supportive caregiver means extending that same care to yourself.