Caregiving Can Be a Challenge

October 4, 2010 by Alzheimer's Speaks

Caregiving is challenging no matter what side of Care you are on – Giving or Receiving.

I learned early on as a Caregiver when I perceived my role as a “Fix It Person,” my To Do list became a competitive game.? This attitude created a Win/Lose situation, and it was driven by my need to control things.

Today I approach my Caregiving?“To Do List” with flexibility.? I assess?three things before I proceed?with any task.? Those three things are:? is the person I am providing care to 1) Safe, 2) Pain-free, and 3) Happy.? If so, I move forward with my tasks in the order of my priorities.? If not, I make some adjustments to make sure I can say “yes” to those three items.? Once I know my person is Safe, Pain-free, and Happy; I review my checklist knowing it is ok to reprioritize. I accept some things may not get completed how, when, or where I thought they would.? I have found these three words help me stay focused on what’s truly important. ?It’s not about me feeling in control.? It’s about Good Care!? Funny thing is, when I am more flexible in my Caregiving Role, I am less stressed and feel more in control.

To get a tool which can help you stay on track when caring for another, go to the Resource Website Alzheimer’s Speaks and get Your Memory Chip?.? It’s free, just click on the star burst on the home page and order yours today.? Http://www.AlzheimersSpeaks.com

Lori La Bey of Senior Lifestyle Trends

Posted in Caregiver, Dementia, Denial, Find Opportunities within an Obstacle, Grief, Guilt, Hospice, Sandwich Generation, Simple Pleasures, adult children, aging, alzheimer's disease, alzheimers, caregiving, caring for edlerly, caring for loved ones, caring for parents, elderly, gift ideas, loss, memory care, memory loss, nursing home, old, parenting parents, seniors | Tagged hospice, pallative, control, stress, time management | 6 Comments

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