By Alison Crane
Judy has been actively serving as the primary caregiver for both her mother and husband for the last twenty years. As her family members’ health has deteriorated, she has found herself spending more and more time providing the assistance they need. While she does this willingly, she admits caring for her family has taken a toll.
Caregiving is often a 24 hour/7 days a week responsibility. Fatigue and stress can sometimes cause the caregiver to be overwhelmed. Often friends and family are at a loss on how to help. While there are many ways to support a caregiver, some of the most meaningful simply involve being a friend.
To encourage the caregiver in your life, try these four simple actions:
Include them. Ask them to join you for a get together with friends, invite them to lunch, or to a movie. Offer to arrange care so they can fill free to join you.
Listen attentively. While you probably cannot solve their problems, you can give them a chance to vent. Sometimes all they need is just a sympathetic ear.
Offer the gift of your time. Arrange a time to sit with the care receiver so the caregiver can go to an appointment or get some down time. Run an errand for them or help with a needed project around the home.
Bring food. Whether it is a full meal, a main dish, or dessert, ready to eat food can save a caregiver precious time and energy. Be sure to check to make sure it will fit with his or her schedule and dietary needs.
November is National Caregivers Month. If you would like to learn more ways to encourage a caregiver or are a caregiver and would like resources on healthy living while caring for others, visit my Facebook @GarlandFCS or email acrane@uaex.edu.
Alison Crane is a Family and Consumer Science Agent with the Garland County Extension Service. The Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, marital or veteran status, or any other legally protected status, and is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.
