Family caregivers sometimes end up isolated when their daily schedule leaves little room for socialization. You can use the following tips to be a good friend to a caregiver who feels isolated.
Send a Quick Text
When your friend no longer has time for long chats on the phone, you can still keep your relationship going by sending short messages each day. Texting allows your friend to respond at will, and he or she may get a mood boost from seeing your updates. Make sure to keep your texts positive. Caregivers love seeing pictures of their friends or just hearing little snippets about their day.
If your friend is having difficulty caring for his or her aging parent, suggest hiring a professional caregiver. Families shouldn’t have to worry about finding reliable home care. Lincoln Home Care Assistance is a leading provider of elderly home care. We offer a proprietary program called the Balanced Care Method, which uses holistic methods to promote senior health, our caregivers and Care Managers are available 24/7, and all of our in-home care services are backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Gift the Caregiver with a Service
Many people find it difficult to manage their caregiving duties, and they have no time for fun. Consider gifting your friend with a service such as a professional housekeeper. Your friend is sure to appreciate the gesture, and it may open up time for him or her to see you and other friends.
Watch Out for Signs of Burnout
The combination of a heavy workload and very little socialization can easily lead to burnout. However, caregivers are often so caught up in the daily grind that they do not realize when they’re ready to give up. Caregiver burnout causes symptoms such as a fatigue, apathy, and general unhappiness. Physical symptoms may also be present, such as not feeling well when there is no obvious reason. If you notice the signs of burnout, talk to your friend about arranging for respite care.
In Lincoln, respite care is a great help to many families. Caring for a senior loved one can be overwhelming at times, which puts family caregivers at risk for burnout. However, an in-home caregiver can take over your loved one’s care, allowing you the time you need to focus on your own health, maintain a full-time job, or care for other members of your family.
Be Willing to Listen without Judgment
Let your friend know you’re willing to let him or her vent. Often, caregivers who are isolated feel as though they have nowhere to go when they feel stressed. Tell your friend that he or she is always welcome to share worries, fears, and anxieties without being judged. Your friend will surely appreciate the fact that he or she can open up to you about anything.
Prepare a Healthy Snack or Meal
Caregivers who are isolated may rarely have an opportunity to sit down and talk with others during their mealtimes. Preparing a healthy snack or meal gives you the perfect excuse to stop in for a visit. Your friend can spend some time socializing without worrying about cooking and cleaning up the kitchen.
Hiring a professional caregiver is one of the best ways family members can reduce their caregiving burden and focus on their own health and wellbeing. Although it may be challenging to find reliable, highly rated elderly care, Lincoln, CA, families can turn to Home Care Assistance. Our respite and live-in caregivers are expertly trained to assist seniors with a wide array of important tasks, including cooking, bathing, light housekeeping, and exercise. To learn about our high-quality in-home care plans, give us a call at (916) 226-3737 today.