Individuals who provide care for others with injuries or disabilities have unique challenges. Life can be rearranged for the entire family and friends. Being a caregiver includes accommodating the needs of the person you are caring for as well as meeting your own life needs.
Create breaks or rest times for yourself. This might be time away in moments of solitude, especially in the beginning. You may find time to be in another room or close your eyes for five minutes. As time goes by, you will find opportunities to renew your life's enjoyment.
Family members and friends want to help you but may not know what to do. Ask for help, or if someone volunteers, give them a job. Teach your volunteer tasks to help.
Monitor your mood, spirituality, and sleep. Caregiving can be exhausting. You may be up at night to assist with some personal care. Utilize your resources to your advantage.
Follow a healthy diet. It can be easy to fall into a quick bite of non-nutritious or comfort food. Follow a meal plan and stick to it.
Work with the person for whom you are providing care so they can do as much as they can on their own. This builds self-confidence and allows more independence for them.
Talk frankly with the person who is requiring your care. It may be easier for you to do some activities at alternate times. For example, showers may have been provided in the morning at the rehabilitation hospital, but it may be easier for you at home in the evening.
This is a new normal for you as well as for the individual you are providing care. See what must be done and set a schedule for these activities. Remember to put in breaks for yourself. As you adjust to your schedule, you can mold your caregiving activities into a regular routine.