I’m sure you’ve all heard the flight attendant’s warning – “In the event of a sudden drop in cabin pressure, an oxygen mask will drop from the compartment above you. If you are traveling with small children or someone who needs assistance, be sure to put your mask on first before helping others.”
It’s not only protocol, it’s good advice. And, of course, none of us would think twice about doing that in an airplane. But what about our daily caregiving duties. How many of us would let our loved one come second to ourselves?
The idea of support for caregivers is not a new one, but many organizations have formed recently to address this need.
The phrase “caregivers come first” is a call to action and a program name that emphasizes the importance of self-care for caregivers, as well as their access to resources and support. It acknowledges that caregivers need to prioritize their own well-being to effectively care for others and can be seen in programs like Caregivers FIRST (Finding Important Resources, Support, and Training) by the VA Caregiver Support Program. Prioritizing caregivers means they should take breaks, manage their own health, and seek help when needed, without guilt, so they can avoid burnout and remain strong for those they are caring for, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine and Family Caregiver Alliance.
Type “caregiver” into your browser and you will get a wealth of information on how to maintain your health and autonomy while serving as a caregiver even to family members who live in the same household. Here are some of the tips available:
- Acknowledges personal barriers – help is available for bathing and personal hygiene if you are uncomfortable or not physically able to perform those tasks
- Take breaks – get out and do the shopping, take a walk, read a book or engage in a hobby you enjoy
- Maintain your health – being physically able to respond to their needs is important for you and for them… get your flu shot, take your daily meds and vitamins, etc.
- Maintain other relationships – go out to a movie with a friend; have lunch together and talk about topics you enjoy
- Seek help – we can all use help from time to time, and there are so many friends, family members and professionals who are more than happy to help you out
- Use programs and resources – there is no lack of online resources, including the Alzheimer’s Association
For the past two years, Quincy senior service providers and our local Alzheimer’s Association chapter have partnered to present dinner and a group of informative speakers to local caregivers. This year’s dinner is on November 12th at the Quincy Family and Resource Center, 639 York in Quincy. The time is 5:30 – 7:30, and respite care will be provided.
If you are a caregiver, be good to yourself so you can be good for them!
