"Love is not a

possession but a

growth. The heart is a

lamp with just enough

oil to burn for an hour,

and if there be no oil

to put in again, its

light will go out.

God's peace

is the oil that fills the

lamp of love."

Henry Ward Beecher

Coping Skills for the Caregiver

Caregiving is one of the most challenging experiences you will ever face. If you don't take care of yourself not only will your health become depleted but you will leave the care receiver at risk of not having a caregiver. It is essential that coping skills and time out are incorporated for yourself in your day to day activities of caregiving.

You can cut the anxiety of caregiving by:

Begin by making a list of things you know that you can do and/or feel comfortable doing.

Make a list of things that you do not feel comfortable or do not know how to do. Discuss this with other family members or caregivers and find the right person with the skills or knowledge to do these things. If this is not possible seek help in learning these skills.

Learn all you can about the disease process of your care receiver. This helps you prepare for the future before it becomes the present.

Make changes in the home environment in which you will be giving care that will make your job as easy as possible such as ramps, chair lifts, potty risers, etc.

If you are a caregiver, chances are that others will notice changes before you do. If you notice or someone who loves you notices any of these symptoms it  is time to make changes in your caregiving responsibilities. Seek professional help or counseling. It is also time to consider professional sitters or additional help from family, friends, church or community.