Five Helpful Steps for New Caregivers

First Steps: Help for New Caregivers

From Cargiver.org

It is easy to become overwhelmed as a new caregiver. Five steps that can help are:

• Start with a diagnosis. Learning about a family member's diagnosis helps caregivers understand the disease process and plan ahead realistically.

• Talk about finances and healthcare wishes. Having these conversations can be difficult, but completing Durable Powers of Attorney for finances and healthcare can help relieve anxiety and better prepare for the future.

• Consider inviting family and close friends to come together and discuss the care needed. If possible, it's helpful to include the care recipient in this meeting. This meeting gives caregivers a chance to say what they need, plan for care and ask others for assistance.

• Take advantage of community resources such as Meals on Wheels and adult day programs. These resources help relieve the workload and offer a break. Look for caregiver educational programs that will increase knowledge and confidence.

• Find support. The most important thing is for caregivers to not become isolated as they take on more responsibility and as social life moves into the background. Online and in-person support groups can be very helpful in connecting with others in the same circumstances.

Feel free to call Gena Bertelsen at 801-623-9595 if you need any resources for these ideas and suggestions!