Caregiving 101 – Crash Course in Caregiving
#1. Follow the Patients Lead – Take your cues from the patient about how much or how little you can be doing to help.
#2. Allow the Patient to do as Much as Possible – Don’t hover. Allow the patient to maintain as much independence as he or she is able.
#3. Ask for (and Accept) Help – You cannot do it all. Maintain a list of names and numbers of people who can help, including the tasks they can perform.
#4. Communicate – Be authentic. Maintain two-way communication with the patient, even if it means sharing tears and fears.
#5. Find Humour – Laughter soothes the soul and acts as a release valve for stress.
#6. Practice Self Care – Taking care of yourself enables you to stay healthy and better care for the patient.
#7. Get Emotional Support – A counselor or friend can provide an invaluable emotional outlet during this stressful time.
#8. Breath – A few deep breaths can have an instant calming effect. Make it a priority to pause and breath on a regular basis.
content from Spring 2012 CancerFighters Thrive Magazine. (pg. 29)
