Its estimated that one out of every four adults is now caring for someone else and Baby Boomers are the most affected. Were referred to as the Sandwich Generation because many of us are looking after both our parents and our children. Its no wonder were often stressed to the max. Not surprisingly, studies show the pressure takes its toll on our own health and on our productivity. Statistically, caregivers miss more time from work and are less productive.
If youre a caregiver, here are some things you can keep in mind to help you cope:
Caregiving is a real job and you deserve to take some time off. Make sure to give yourself real breaks from the job.
Caregivers are often fighting the blues. If you feel depressed for more than two weeks, are losing sleep, interest in life, either losing or gaining weight, seek professional help or join a support group.
When youre offered help by friends and other relatives, dont hesitate to take them up on the offer. But be clear about what your needs really are.
Sometimes its difficult to speak to doctors about your loved ones situation. Read about their condition, so when you do speak to medical experts youre coming from an enlightened and educated place. Knowledge is power.
Whenever its possible for a loved one to take care of themselves encourage it. Youre there to help not to do everything.
Dont second guess yourself trust your gut feelings. Studies show 90 percent of the time our instincts are right on target. Dont angst over decisions you have to make.
Caregivers are often doing a lot of physical labor. For this reason, back aches are common complaint. Try to fit in a weekly class of yoga or at least stretch daily at home. You want to protect yourself from injury.
This is a sad situation and its okay to grieve. But dont lose sight of the future. Give yourself permission to look ahead to better times.
You are not alone. Look to other caregivers for ideas and emotional support
Remember every family and every situation is different. Trust in solutions that work best for you.
Try to divide the familys responsibilities as evenly as possible.
Take care of business matters before the situation becomes critical. Its much easier to sign a Power of Attorney, Living will and Last Will and Testament when the loved one is coherent.
Be realistic. Sometimes it is difficult for families to discuss what will happen as a parent ages. If you don't talk about it and your loved one dies without a will, the state will decide what to do with the estate. Even more critical is a Living Will. Without this, your loved could be kept on life support for years.
Most communities have agencies just to deal with these type issues. Use the resources that are available.
Robin Westen is ThirdAges Medical Reporter. Check for her daily updates.
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