What To Do When FamilyDoes Not Help?
What To Do When Family
Does Not Help?
There are many caregivers who cringe when they hear the statement “You are not alone.” It can feel so far from the truth when you know you are the only one showing up and doing the work.
But there are some ways of inviting help into your caregiving journey. Let’s explore some options for inviting help into your caregiving space.
Seven Steps To Inviting Help Into Your Caregiving Story
1. Admit that you have a need. Accept the fact that you may be drowning in the amount of time and energy it takes. Ask for help. Don’t be afraid, people do understand.
2. Let go of trying to convince someone to help you. If a sibling or relative is not willing to help, then stop trying to talk them into it. Make sure you are not rejecting any help that they are willing to do.
3. Look at church organizations. Consider reaching out to people who knew your loved one and to the specific organizations of the church that have outreach committees.
4. Reach out to organizations related to your loved one’s diagnosis. (i.e., Cancer Society, Alzheimer’s Associate, ALS Foundation, Multiple Sclerosis organization, etc.). These organizations are a wonderful support for caregivers, providing valuable information, support groups, respite care, and at times have grants available to help support care.
5. Consider the use of technology and equipment to support you. Remote monitoring of your loved one when it is safe, is a viable option.
6. Use of home health, palliative care, and hospice services are options to also consider. An order from their physician and meeting of qualifications is required.
7. Accept help from trusted friends who offer to help. When that trusted friend offers, have a list ready to choose from.
Bottom Line:
Caregiving can be isolating, oftentimes there is not enough support available to make the load easier. Reach out to find ways of filling in the gaps by looking beyond where you are currently looking may be needed. Consider friends and others you trust, accept their offers of help, even if it is in small amounts. Look at organizations, talk with others who have experienced what you are going through and are available to listen and give support.
Consuela Marshall, Occupational Therapist, Caregiver Coach
THERE IS ALSO A PODCAST!
Listen to the corresponding podcast that is available on the FindingAFoothold.com website and on all major podcast streaming sites.
Visit FindingAFoothold.com call-in line to tell your caregiving challenge and receive a free response to your struggle on an upcoming podcast show. The call in button is located on the website.
Visit the consult page of the website, find out how to schedule a free 20 minute consult to discuss in more depth your caregiving challenge and learn how to receive help developing a caregiving plan specific for your needs.
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Disclaimer: The podcast and blog are intended to provide basic information so that you can become a more informed caregiver. The information presented is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not meant to serve as medical advice or replace consultation with any health care providers you regularly engage with. Transmission or receipt of any of this information is not intended to, and does not, create a therapist-patient relationship. This information is not provided in the course of a therapist-patient relationship and is not intended to constitute medical advice or to substitute for obtaining medical advice from a physician or therapist licensed in the state where your family may reside. We encourage everyone to consult with your physician or therapist to see if they are appropriate and safe for you.