The Do's and Don'ts of Caregiving

eing a caregiver for a loved one can be both rewarding and challenging. As you navigate this journey, there are some things you should and should not do to help you along the way. Here are the Do's and Don'ts of Caregiving:

Do: Use humor

Humor is one of the best ways to stay positive when you're caring for a loved one. It can help you cope with the stress of caregiving, which can lead to burnout and even depression. So if you feel like your sense of humor has taken a hit, try these tips:

• Watch comedies or read jokes online. You might be surprised how much laughter helps!
• Listen to a comedy podcast. There are tons to choose from on Spotify or Apple Podcast.
• Get on social media. There are tons of funny videos to enjoy on TikTok, Instagram or Facebook.
• Listen to standup comedy on YouTube.
• Laugh with a friend!

Discover more ways to Add Laughter to Your Life as a Caregiver

Do: Have some "me" time

When you're caring for someone, it can be hard to find the time and energy to do something for yourself. But if you don't give yourself this time, you could run into problems down the road.

So make sure that you have time to do something just for yourself every day. Even if it's just taking a walk around the block or going out for coffee with friends. It will help keep you healthy and happy as a caregiver!

Learn more: 10 Ways to Care For Yourself as a Caregiver

Do: Stay informed on research and trends

Keeping up with research and trends in the field of caregiving is important. New information is constantly being released, and it's important that you are aware of what's going on. This will help you keep your skills sharp and up-to-date so that you can provide the best care possible for your loved ones.

Stay informed and read caregiving best-sellers: Best-Selling Books on Caregiving: Self-Care, Dementia, Family Relationships & More

Do: Learn about the different types of assistance available

There are many types of assistance available for caregivers. From home health aides who can help with daily tasks such as bathing and dressing, to home care nurses who can provide more comprehensive medical support. Each type of assistance has its own advantages and disadvantages, so learning about all the options will help you make an informed decision about which type works best for your situation.

Find out how you can utilize respite care for caregiving assistance: Create a Respite Care Plan to Give Yourself a Caregiving Break

Don’t: Get to the point of burnout

If you're a caregiver, it's important to make sure that you don't get to the point of burnout. To prevent this, it's important to take time for yourself and your own needs.

You can do this by setting boundaries with your family, friends, and other caregivers in order to give yourself some space. You can also consider taking a break from caregiving by letting someone else take over for a while with respite care or other home service assistance.

Avoid burnout: Self-Care Tips to Prevent Caregiver Burnout

Don't: Try to do it alone

When you're a caregiver, it can be easy to feel like there's no one else in the world who understands what you're going through. That's why it's important to find a support network—whether it's family, friends, or even a professional service. If you haven't already found someone who can help you out with the day-to-day responsibilities of caregiving, now is the time to do some research and find someone who can help.

GetSetUp caregiving classes: Caring for Caregivers

Don't: Let guilt overwhelm you

When you take on the role of caregiver, you may feel a lot of emotions. Some good, some bad. While it's normal to feel guilty about your new role, it's important not to let it take over.

One way to make sure that doesn't happen is by making self-care a priority. If you're overwhelmed by the tasks before you, it can be easy to forget about your own needs. But taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your loved one! Think of it this way: you can't care for others if you aren't caring for yourself.

Learn How to Manage Caregiver Guilt and Enjoy Life Again

Being a caregiver isn't easy, so you've got to take care of yourself, too!

You are a person and have needs just like anyone else. You need to take care of yourself so that you can best take care of your loved one.