Helping Hands for Caregivers

Caregivers do need and appreciate help. I was reminded of this fact as I participated in a recent Caregiver's Expo as an exhibitor. The event was well-attended and business was brisk for many of my neighbouring exhibitors and myself. A good-sized crowd gathered to listen to the keynote speaker who presented on how important maintaining a sense of humour is while providing care.

As attendees (both young and old) approached me, I saw a glimmer of hope in their eyes ... perhaps I could provide some answers for them through my book. I heard stories from adult children looking after their parents, spouses caring for their partners and one woman who was helping her own younger sister.

I listened with despair to these stories ... often, caregivers have their hands tied with what they can do medically for an aging parent. But family caregivers can do a great deal in other respects - specifically, when it comes to making a parent more comfortable or their own lives more bearable. There are many exceptional products on the market today (and more continually being developed) to ease discomfort and provide continued independence for a senior for as long as possible. Visit your local healthcare supply store to learn about these products.

Caregivers must also pay attention to their own needs. Take a break; walk away for even one hour per day and this will help.

My Caregiver's Expo was just one of many resources available to caregivers. What is discouraging is these type of events are not held more frequently and are not widely-advertised. Therefore, it is up to the caregiver to take the initiative and seek out help and support from others. Begin with your own family and friends, research Senior's Associations in your local telephone book, turn to the Internet to learn more about caregiving issues. Ask questions and keep asking questions until you find an appropriate answer. Above all, do not ignore an extended hand of help when offered from another person ... sharing the responsibilities of caregiving with others will, ultimately, help you.