Caregivers Must Avoid Injury By Refusing Unrealistic Demands
Caring for aging parents and spouses can be very demanding. It can also be dangerous when a loved one has unrealistic expectations from the caregiver. Caregivers can be at risk for injury to themselves and to their loved ones if they are performing tasks that are not safe to do.
Parents and spouses can often have a distorted concept of how they are to be assisted with transfers and assisted with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). Some expect caregivers to perform repetitive and strenuous lifting and pulling tasks that place the caregiver at risk for back and neck injuries.
Many do not see the negative impact they are causing the caregiver and at times they are only focused on their comfort level. Caregivers must verbalize their concerns and set limits. They must realized that they are not solely responsible for their loved ones comfort and mobility needs. Setting boundaries to protect their health is important.
3 Ways To Minimize Injury Risk While Providing Care:
Seek Training From Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy.
Request an order from the Primary Care Physician for Home Health Therapy. Home health therapists can evaluate the home setting and your loved one’s strengths and weaknesses and devices a plan which includes strengthening, home modifications, home safety equipment and hands-on training to the caregiver.
Get Input From Your Loved One On Which Changes Can Be Made.
Care recipients often refuse to make changes due to feeling that they are losing control. Kindly explaining how the recommendations will improve the quality of their lives and the your life. Emphasize that the changes will result in improved ability of the caregiver and the care recipient to continue to work as a team. Emphasize to them that safety equipment and devices can signifiant improve their independence and comfort.
Discontinue Tasks or Obtain Additional Support.
If your loved one continues to demand that unsafe techniques be used, you must set boundaries. Discontinue those tasks which cause you pain or seek additional support from others who can assist with that task.
Remember, you only have one life, you only have one body. You must take care of yourself first. Saying no to unrealistic demands does not mean you do not care for your loved one. Saying no means you also care for yourself.
Consuela Marshall, Occupational Therapist
Today’s blog is inspired by an actual client case. Listen to the Caregiver’s Finding A Foothold Episode 16: Helping When Mom Doesn’t Know Best.
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