Maybe it was expected, or perhaps you were caught off guard. Mom has just received an official diagnosis for a progressive disease that will make independent living challenging to maintain. While there are several questions, one thing is for sure: she’s adamant about remaining at home – meaning you will have some decisions about providing the care she will need.
Welcome to the world of family caregiving! If you are feeling a bit overwhelmed with what can be expected next as a family caregiver helping a loved one with a new diagnosis, these tips can help:
Prioritize organization. Create a folder in which to store necessary paperwork: prescription details, test results, contact information for doctors’ offices and also the pharmacy, and any other essential medical information. Start a journal to help note any changes in condition or concerns and the details surrounding those changes.
Learn as much as you can in regards to the disease. The older adult’s doctor can provide you with educational materials and resources to help you know what to anticipate and to increase confidence in your family caregiving role.
Determine boundaries together. Talk with the senior about how much and what sort of help could be beneficial. It is natural to want to step in and take control. Nevertheless, the older adult needs to maintain as much power and independence as possible.
Put aside past hurts. A new diagnosis could cause old family dynamics to resurface. If unresolved issues interfere with your ability to provide the best care, turn to the support of a professional therapist to work through them effectively.
Take care of yourself, too. Your health and wellness are equally important. And the level of care you provide can be affected if your own needs are not being met. Designate and prioritize time daily for self-care by seeking out and accepting help from others.
It is essential to pay attention to the signs of caregiver burnout and depression and to take steps as quickly as possible if you begin to experience warning signs, including:
Increased agitation, anxiety, and irritability
Less interest in once-enjoyed pastimes
Withdrawing from social interactions
Loss of appetite
Resentment
Difficulty with focus and concentration
Problems with falling or staying asleep
Fatigue
Finding a trustworthy care partner provides you with time to see a doctor for a checkup to eliminate other possible health problems, speak with a therapist to work through the many emotions involved in caregiving, and relax and recharge.
The caregiving team at Modern Health Home Care, providers of in-home elder care services in Philadelphia and surrounding counties, is always available to provide further resources for family caregivers and expert, trusted respite care services.
Partnering with Modern Health Home Care enables a healthier life balance and helps family caregivers navigate caring for a loved one with a new diagnosis. Contact us online or at 215.995.2012 for a complimentary in-home consultation.
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