Portland Home Care - Guardian Angel Caregivers in Portland OR gives family members tips on helping yourself be a better family caregiver. If you need help caring for an elder or senior in your family, please call us at (503) 698-2020.
HOW I LEARNED TO MAKE THE MOST OF CAREGIVING
I have been providing care to my 92 year old mother for over ten years. For half of the time, I was also managing a full-time career and caring for my own household and family. Juggling my responsibilities while maintaining my own sanity, was definitely not easy, but I used a few tactics that I think saved me and allowed me to get through the trials and tribulations I faced over the years.
At times I become overwhelmed and feel literally trapped; my breathing becomes shallow and my throat constricts. The best method I have found to get through these experiences is to visualize. I picture a time when I was incredibly content and try and recreate the sensations. I breathe deeply, and let the feelings take over; I smile, laugh and let the energy flow.
That is all part of remaining positive, which is sometimes easier said than done; I acknowledge my feelings and try not to ignore my thoughts, even when they are not favorable. By addressing them, I am able to overcome them rather than pretending they don’t exist. When my thoughts and feelings are negative, I try to reframe my perspective and look on the bright side. Sometimes mentally asking questions about what I’m dealing with can be very helpful, such as: “Is my thinking helping me or hurting me?” “What would I tell a friend who has similar thoughts?” “What small step can I take to improve the situation?” I find this is a great method for putting a positive spin on things and reassuring myself.
Another challenge I experience as a caregiver, is overcoming the feeling that I am alone and that I have no support network. I find that making a list identifying the people who are there to support me, both emotionally and physically, helps me remember that I do have friends and family who care about me, and who are ready to help.
Tags: elderly portland, senior care Portland, Senior home care portland
