FHCA - What I wish I knew before becoming FHCA

🌸 Advice to a Caregiver: What I Wish I Knew

From the Family Homemaker Perspective

Becoming a caregiver isn’t something most of us plan for. One day, your loved ones are vibrant and independent, and the next, you're stepping into the role of a caregiver. And trust me, I wasn’t prepared for the physical and emotional challenges it would bring.

💭 The Start of the Journey

It begins with small signs—a fall, memory lapses, or difficulty moving around. These little changes make you realize your loved one may no longer be able to live independently, and that’s when those tough conversations start.

The transition from family member to caregiver is not an easy one, but it’s a journey that many of us have to take.

🌟 What I Wish I Knew:

1. Stages of Dementia I wish I knew more about how dementia progresses and how to manage each stage. Understanding the physical and emotional changes would have helped me feel more prepared.

1. Physical Struggles Watching someone you love struggle to walk or live with chronic pain is heartbreaking. I wasn’t ready for how this would affect me emotionally.

2. The Unseen Impact Caregiving is demanding. No matter how hard I tried to “fix” everything, I learned that my role was to support and not “solve” the problem. It became a 24/7 commitment, and I often forgot to care for myself.

   
   
   
   

3. Ask for Help. Don’t go it alone! Enlist the help of family members and create a care plan that shares responsibilities. Teamwork is essential to avoid burnout.

4. Prioritize Self-Care Here’s the most important advice: You cannot pour from an empty cup. Caregiving is hard, but taking care of yourself—physically, mentally, and emotionally—is crucial. Don’t feel guilty for taking breaks!

   
   

💡 Tips for Effective Caregiving:

• 📝 Do Your Research: Learn about your loved one’s condition. The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be.

• 👩‍⚕️ Consult Healthcare Professionals: Seek guidance from doctors and therapists to manage both medical and physical challenges.

• ❤️ Engage with Empathy: Your loved one may resist help, but always approach them with kindness. Put yourself in their shoes—they’re likely frustrated too.

• ⏸ Set Boundaries: It’s okay to take breaks. You need rest to be the best caregiver you can be.

🌈 Caregiving is a Journey

It’s a rewarding but challenging role, and one that’s full of emotional ups and downs. The most valuable lesson I’ve learned: Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential.

Through all the challenges, remember that your health and well-being matter just as much as your loved one’s.