This feels like the longest month ever. It’s difficult to keep up with what day it is. The work hours, appointments, and social events that structure our schedules are all on hold. We’re staying in. We’re avoiding contact with others unless it’s absolutely necessary.
What kind of impact is this having on people who were already isolated inside caregiving roles? There are over 42 million unpaid, or informal, caregivers across the U.S.
You might think it’s just more of the same stuff. The same day-to-day responsibilities are still there. Feeding, bathing, medications, turning, incontinent care. And then more meals, bathing….you get the picture.
Photo by Helen Bauer, The Heart of Hospice
But if you’re an informal caregiver providing that care right now, how does the pandemic amplify the anxiety and isolation you already have?
Limited access to your medical providers. Fear of something serious happening that requires a trip to the ER or a hospital admission. Knowing you need gloves to help your loved one with bathroom hygiene but can’t find them in the stores. Worry that you as the caregiver will get sick – and then what do you do? Concern that anyone who comes to the house to help you is contagious.
What if you pass on the corona virus to the already fragile loved one for whom you provide care?
Here’s what I’ll tell you: hold fast.
I had a hospice nurse mentor who would tell our team to “hold fast” when things got hectic. It was her way of saying stop and breathe for a minute. She wanted us to think about solutions rather than go straight to panicked knee-jerk reactions. Slow down for a minute. Allow yourself to be calm.
I came to learn that taking a minute to breathe and think helped me clear my mind. I could think about possible solutions. Not all the solutions were going to work, but I could sort through them to figure out the best action.
It can be like that for you as a personal caregiver, too. Take time to think through all available options. You can do this. You’re not alone.
Reach out to the connections you already have.
Take care of your whole Self.
Be aware of your emotions and mindset.
Talk to someone – a friend, a professional – and stay connected.
If you have home health or hospice staff coming to your home, allow them to continue to do what they do best – support you.
Utilize all the services that are available, affordable, and appropriate for your needs.
Remember The Heart of Hospice is here to support you. On the Learn page of our website, you’ll find more information about Self Care especially for personal caregivers. If you have questions about what hospice can do for you, email us at host@theheartofhospice.com.
Your journey still matters. Hold fast.
No matter who you are, or where you are in your hospice journey, you are The Heart of Hospice.
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