Know your limits – It’s important to remember that you are only one person and there is only so much you can do. Try to focus on what you can do and accept the things you cannot.
Prioritize – If you have a lot of different things to do, it may help to prioritize. Work out the things that you really need to do and the things that are less important, and do the things that are most important first.
Deal with your feelings – It is important to try to understand why you feel the way you do, and accept the negative feelings you have. Others will be feeling exactly the same. Negative emotions sometimes do not make you a bad person, and being aware of how you feel can make it easier to cope with and move on.
When things get frustrating, think about why. Do you overdo things? Do you not have access to the help you require? On understanding why you feel the way you do, you will be able to make better decisions about what is right for you and for those you care for. For more information about Live in Care, visit a site like https://www.liveincare.com/
Talk about it – Talking is often the first step to dealing with emotions. Talking can help you to feel less alone and anxious. Keeping your feelings locked up is likely to make things worse. This is bad for you and the people you care about. Talking also provides an opportunity to put things into perspective.
Talk to other caregivers – Talking about your experiences with other caregivers can also be very beneficial. You may be able to share advice and discuss your experiences. It may also be easier to talk about your feelings with other caregivers because they understand what you are experiencing.
It can help to talk about dementia to people you know. Tell them what life is like for you, and for the person you care for. It can help them understand how much you do and what help and support you need. This will also give others a better idea of how they might be able to help. Often people may not offer because they do not know what they can do.
Ask for help – Do not be afraid to ask for help and support if you need it. If you do not have friends or family who can help, or other types of support are available such as voluntary organizations or a local authority may be able to help. Find out if there are services available to you or the person with dementia in your area.
Think positively – Focus on some positive aspects of care and supporting someone, such as your commitment to the person you care for. Think about your relationship with them and the fact you are there for them and help them tremendously.
