Share the Care

Have you ever thought that no one else could care for your loved one as well as you? It’s a common attitude when people devote so much of themselves to caring for someone else. They’re reluctant to share any of the responsibility, and they refuse to accept help when they need it.
 
What they may not realize is this reluctance can have a detrimental effect on both the caregiver and the loved one. For the caregiver, it can lead to burnout and feelings of resentment. For the loved one, it can create an unhealthy dependence on the caregiver.
 
That brings us to the second topic in our social series: respite care, which means taking a break from caregiving when you need it. Respite care is social in two ways. Whatever you do when you’re taking a break is likely to be social, and you should be able to turn to your social support network to find help when you need a break.
 
Still, I realize that just asking for help can be difficult, and taking it when it’s offered can be even harder. Here’s an article that might help you ask for assistance when you need it. As it notes: “Caregivers want to help others, they usually have trouble saying no because they want to help as much as they can. … However, this can lead to burnout because they take on too much. Know when to say ‘No’ and when to say ‘Yes! I need the help!’”
 
You may be surprised how many people are willing to help if you ask. Family and friends, support groups such as Courage to Caregivers, others in your social network, and professional in-home services are among the alternatives available.
 
The point is that everyone needs a break now and then, and it’s important to know that you’re never alone. You can take a break when you need one.
 
So relax, take some time out to do something that brings you joy, and revitalize yourself. It will be good for both you and your loved one.