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Caring for a family member
or friend is not easy, nor is it something most of us are prepared
to do. Like most people, you may have questions about your
family member or friend's illness or condition. If you have
a job and are juggling several responsibilities or if your family
member or friend requires a lot of assistance, you may need help
providing care for them.
Many caregivers feel
alone, helpless, confused, unprepared and unable to provide for
the needs of their family member or friend. Learning about
being a caregiver may help you feel supported and more comfortable
with your role. This section contains information and resources
to help you learn more about being a caregiver and where to find
additional help on the Internet and in your community.
You can also visit our
online
community for support from other people in similar situations.
Introduction
to Caregiving
Are you a caregiver?
Most people who provide care for a friend or family member don’t
think of themselves as a caregiver. You may not consider yourself
a caregiver, but do you regularly:
- Drive a family member, friend or neighbor to doctor’s
appointments?
- Make meals for someone?
- Help someone with household chores such as cleaning, grocery
shopping, lawn care, etc?
- Make regular phone calls to someone to “check in”
on them?
- Provide hands-on care, including bathing, help eating, toileting,
or other help?
- Help someone make decisions about medical decisions?
- Assist someone with personal business affairs, such as bill
paying?
- If you answered yes to one or more of these questions you may
be a caregiver.
- Caregivers provide support to someone who needs help.
It doesn’t matter how many hours per week are spent providing
support. Caregivers may live with the person they are caring
for, providing assistance with daily needs, or may visit the person
weekly or call regularly. Being a caregiver involves an
investment in time, energy and support.
For more information about
cargiving, visit the following links:
Related Links:
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