How to be the best Caregiver.
Half of all adult Americans have at least one chronic condition for which they need help from a caregiver, family member, or friend. Here are some tips on how to be the best caregiver you can be.
Make a daily Plan
Each day is unique and needs preparation and planning. As you care for your person the needs change daily. Have a plan ready to keep comfort and care personalized and consistent.
Build Confidence
Make effort every day to ensure confidence in who you care for. We are all human and this is nothing better than having confidence that you can accomplish any task or problem. Build confidence with yourself and help build confidence with your patient.
Exercise Compassion
When the person you’re caring for is going through difficult treatments, sometimes the best way to help is to just sit and talk with them during their treatment—that helps take their mind off the process. Sometimes just grabbing some treats like a burger and fries or their favorite treat make a big difference in someone's day.
Don't Hesitate to Act
There is nothing more fulfilling than acting fast and doing something for someone before they expected it. Acting on a task that you see is needed is part of the job so don't hesitate and get the job done.
Words of Encouragement
Simple conversations are nice and happen often so make sure that there are words of encouragement entwined within the conversations. These words build confidence and trust between the caregiver and the patient. This will ultimately build a better relationship.
Check in Often to Show you Care
At this time of life for the person who is receiving the care it is often scary to be alone. They are very vulnerable and have many fears. It is very reassuring to know that there is someone there who is caring for them. Checking in often allows them to get the service they require without leaving them to make attempts at doing it themselves.
Take Care of Yourself
Most important is the take care of yourself. Caregiver burn out is a real thing. It is impossible to take care of others if you are not taking care of yourself. Make sure that you are taking adequate breaks and having some of your own time to refresh and just space out. This is vital to being the best caregiver possible.
Care-giving can be a very rewarding and fulfilling lifestyle. If you are interested in becoming a caregiver and would like to contact Southern Comfort Care in St George, Utah please call (435) 421-1259.