Building a Strong Family Caregiving Support Network
With over 65 million Americans caring for chronically ill, disabled, or elderly family members, caregiving is not only a nationwide matter—it’s also a family matter. Caregivers are often under great physical, emotional, and financial stress. This can also impact other members of the family. By connecting with community resources, leveraging technology, and improving communication, caregivers can build a strong support system to lean on when a little extra help is needed.
Why a Family Caregiving Support Network is Important
Many family caregivers accept their responsibilities without formal training or because a loved one is in need. Because of this, many caregivers are learning as they go. Understanding the full scope of caregiving responsibilities—physically, emotionally, and financially—can feel overwhelming. A support system to help shoulder those responsibilities and feelings of stress can keep caregiver burnout at bay.
A family caregiving support network can also help caregivers keep an eye on their own physical and mental health. By identifying early signs of caregiver fatigue and stress such as irritability, sleep disturbances, or feelings of depression, caregivers can ensure they’re staying healthy for themselves and their loved ones.
Creating a Successful Family Caregiving Support Network
1. Communicate openly and regularly. One of the most important parts of a successful family caregiving support network is open, honest, and non-judgmental communication. Schedule regular family meetings to discuss updates, reassess responsibilities, and address any concerns or conflicts.
2. Use the strengths and skills within the family. Evaluate the skills, availability, and willingness of family members to contribute. Some may be able to help with finances, while others may have medical training or can run errands and prepare meals.
Set clear expectations and delegate tasks to avoid any misunderstandings. Think of your support system as a team, with the goal of providing the best care for your loved one.
3. Include outside resources and professional help. Professional services can elevate the care you and your support system are able to provide for your loved one. Consider what professional caregivers, home health aides, or respite care can offer as a complement to the care you’re already providing. Careforth can help families get in touch with reliable services and support in their area.
4. Support the emotional well-being of the caregiver. It’s important to recognize the emotional, physical, and mental toll caregiving can take. There are several strategies caregivers and families can use to help prevent burnout:
- Look for opportunities to take advantage of respite care by leaning on an alternate caregiver.
- Share responsibilities like meal prep, transportation, or managing medical appointments with other trusted family members or friends.
- Exercising regularly, eating healthy meals, getting proper sleep, connecting with friends, and staying hydrated are all simple ways caregivers can improve mental health and combat caregiver burnout.
5. Create a long-term caregiving plan. Thinking ahead can prevent stress later as a loved one’s conditions change. Consider any legal or financial matters you can plan ahead of time, such as power of attorney, an up-to-date will, and any health care directives. You may also need to prepare for end-of-life care discussions with family. Stay prepared by regularly revisiting these issues and adjust your care plan as needed.
Careforth Supports Family Caregivers
At Careforth, we strive to provide the resources and connections that ensure caregivers feel supported at every turn in their caregiving journey. Together, we’ll create a customized care plan and connect you with services and resources in your area. Visit the How We Help page on our site to learn more about how Careforth supports caregivers financially, emotionally, and mentally. If you’re ready to get started, contact us here.