iSavta | 27.07.2020

Before I let go of my caregiving career, I spent 10 grinding years in this business,taking care of individuals who were incapable of taking care of themselves. I can say that life wasn’t that easy as you’re not only responsible for another person’s well-being but you also have a responsibility to take care of yourself. If you can’t do both at the same time, then caregiving is not the right career for you.

 

For 10 long years, I’ve experienced first hand the impact of long term care to both the caregiver and the patient’s family. It requires not just patience and efficiency but also stability. A caregiver should make sure that he/she is able, capable and stable.

 

I’ve learned a few lessons during that time and I will be happy to share with you today. There are tons of lessons but these four R’s are very important for coping and for making your life easier as a caregiver.

 

RETHINK - You might find yourself pretty messed up with your current situation. Priorities are not set, spending time and energy on some things that don't benefit you or you cannot focus on the things that matter the most. These things can significantly affect your job as a caregiver. You have to rethink your priorities and what is important to you. Channel your energy in that specific area of your life and work your way to achieve your goals.

 

REORGANIZE - After establishing your priorities and commitment, you have to start reorganizing your life. Plan on structuring and focusing on your patient needs as well as yours. Caregiving requires sacrifices but it doesn’t mean you’ll put yourself as the very least priority. You cannot be an effective caregiver if you’re not 100% okay.

 

RELAX - Caregiving requires more than what you can give in terms of time and attention. It’s 24-hour round the clock job and can be very overwhelming. It is important for you as a Caregiver to allocate some hours for yourself. Find new hobbies or meditation that you could find peace with. Do something that you love. A simple warm bath can be very effective to relieve you from stress and make you feel better. By doing the things you love even for a few minutes or hours can significantly help you to recharge your energy and be ready to face another day of challenges again.

 

RELEASE - There are things that you cannot control. Let go of these things. Do not dwell too much on guilt, regrets and failures. These things are meant to be released with hope that things will turn out the way it should be for the better.