Although many caregivers are
actively involved in patient care for a considerable amount of time, they may
not be confident or knowledgeable sometimes about the specifics of caring for
someone else while maintaining their own quality of life. In addition, thoughts
of preparing for a loved one’s death and their own future bereavement after the
loved one dies often lurk in the background of their daily living.
Healthcare providers can be a great source of support and information for
caregivers in terms of confidence building and advisement.
The National Family
Caregivers Association shares the following four-point message of advice for
caregivers:
1) Believe in yourself.
2) Protect your health.
3) Reach out for help.
4) Speak up for your rights.
Frances Shani Parker,
Author
Becoming
Dead Right: A Hospice Volunteer in Urban Nursing Homes is available in paperback at many booksellers and in e-book
form at
Amazon and Barnes and Noble booksellers.
