With her article, "Family caregivers need support; how you can help," Teri Dreher hit another one out of the park in Monday's Daily Herald. After a long career as a critical care nurse, Dreher founded NShore Patient Advocates, www.NorthShoreRN.com. Looks like a great service! I always learn something from her columns in the Health & Fitness section of the Daily Herald. Unfortunately, I can't find a link to share here.
Dreher stresses that caregiving is often a long, costly journey. You can show up for the caregiver in a variety of ways. Don't discount the value of just listening. Or, prearrange to mom-sit or dad-sit while the caregiver goes out for a few hours. Small gifts like cupcakes or a book or flowers can brighten the family's day. Bringing a nutritious meal or doing a household chore or two can relieve the caregiver. Even if you don't do practical things for the caregiver, keep in touch by calling or jotting a note. If you're intentional about keeping in touch, the caregiver won't feel so alone.
If you can find "Family caregivers need support; how you can help," you can read all Dreher's ten ideas.
