In the Medical Profession, we come across various forms of ailments – some of a minor nature and yet others of a very serious nature, some just trivial and some life and death situations.
We have patients with minor cold and coughs, aches, pains and then we have some with ailments such as Organ failure, cancer, tumors etc and still others that are degenerative in nature like Alzeimers, Parkinsons etc.
In all of my interactions and consultations as a Doctor, the focus has been on the well-being of the patient. The main focus has been to get the patient up and running to go about his or her normal life.
However, one of the overlooked areas is the vital role a Care Giver plays in the wellbeing of the patient.
The dictionary meaning of the caregiver is : a member who regularly looks after a child or a sick, elderly, or disabled person. The care of a patient with Alzheimer’s disease or a related disorder can be a physical, emotional and financial drain on the family caregiver.
Some common duties of the caregiver are Grocery shopping, Housework, Getting dressed, Taking and keeping track of medicine, Medical care, like keeping wounds clean or giving shots, Cooking food, Transportation, like car rides to appointments, Managing services, like talking to doctors or paying bills.
Many a time caring for the Elderly by a Child, or caring for a child who is specially challenged, or still a sibling caring for another – while at the same time, fulfilling his or her other duties like education, job etc. can put a lot of stress on the Caregiver – thereby scarring the individual caregiver at a later stage of life. Especially once the duties have been completed due to death of the ailing person or recovery after a prolonged illness, or alternative arrangements.
It is essential to understand and support the Care givers in our families and neighbourhoods around us , by being empathetic and supportive by words of encouragement and if possible by extending a helping hand as well – giving a feeling of understanding and a sense of love and belonging to the Caregiver.
Some Basic Tips to Help the Care Giver
- Empathize and Reassure the Caregiver
Genuine Words of Empathy and sharing of personal experiences with the Caregiver can encourage him or her to walk the road knowing that people understand
- Set Up A Care Team
A care team made up of friends and acquaintances will help the caregiver focus on the spiritual connection with his or her loved one without being distracted by what needs to be done. If multiple people help with small tasks, such as fixing dinner or providing transportation to religious services, no one person is left shouldering a major responsibility.
- Help The Caregiver Relax
Provide the caregiver with time away from home to go for a simple walk or just have dinner with a friend. Caregivers need more than help with physical tasks; they also need someone to help them to relax. It may be difficult for them psychologically at this time to allow themselves the luxury of indulging in a favourite form of entertainment. But without taking enjoyable breaks, it may be even harder for them to settle back into a normal lifestyle once their loved one has died.
- Be A Friend
Having someone willing to take the time to listen to what a family caregiver is experiencing is critical to his or her emotional well-being. Let the caregiver share his or her thoughts and feelings freely. Let him or her cry. Show that you care by being there.
Caregivers are God’s Angels sent among men, to comfort the pain in us
Dr. Freeda Da Costa
Health Officer (PHC Shiroda)