By Carol Miller


These last few months months since your father's stroke have proven very challenging to the whole family. He has lost a great deal of ground and relies on you now for so much. It's been challenging to reconcile the situation in your head, being responsible for the individual who once shouldered the responsibility for the whole family. In all honesty the thought of caring for your father through his declining years is an overwhelming prospect. He's undoubtedly earned your care, it is simply that you are not certain you are up to the task.

## I do not want to screw up or disappoint him somehow.

Taking care of a loved one can be a lot to process and get used to at first. It's important not to let yourself get overwhelmed. The first thing you need to do is identify all the resources available to you both from within your family and from without. Just because you are taking on the role of primary caregiver does not mean that you are on your own. Enlist the help you need especially early on when you are still growing into the role.

## There is so much to figure out and, let's face it, the stakes are pretty high.

It sounds as though you're likely going to want to enroll in some sort of caregiver training program. Most cities have places that offer some level of elderly caregiver training, perhaps through community centers, perhaps through community colleges, perhaps through institutions that deal exclusively in the field. If for whatever reason (be it time, money, or accessibility) you can't participate in any of these programs you can instead participate in online caregiver training.

## I would undoubtedly feel more confident if I felt more prepared.

There's a great deal to learn if you've never needed to take on the role of caregiver before but not all of it is complicated. Some of it is simply common sense and some you'd almost certainly figure out by yourself by way of trial and error but whenever your resources are limited it's always preferable to tackle a challenging situation armed with best practices and the wisdom gained through the trial and errors of others. The more you learn the more confident you'll feel in the role and the more confident you feel in the role the easier it will be to face the challenges ahead.

## I actually don't need that much training at the moment, but of course that could change with the situation.

Well then probably you should really consider online caregiver training. If you can find a website that you like, you may be able to pick and choose topics and watch caregiver training videos on subject matter that are germane to your current situation and then branch out from there at your own speed or as the situation merits.

Your diligence and dedication will make a huge difference in the life of the person for whom you are caring. A good caregiver training program is an excellent way to ensure that you are able to anticipate and overcome any obstacles you may face down the road.




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