Caregiver in Lauderhill FL
It is common for a family caregiver to experience feelings of guilt during their time of caring for an elderly parent. This is typically referred to as caregiver guilt. There are a number of different causes why you may experience caregiver’s guilt. As a family caregiver, you may feel as though you aren’t trying hard enough or that it is wrong of you to take a moment to yourself. Feelings of guilt may also arise because you believe your own family is being neglected. It is important to understand that these feelings are completely normal when providing elder care and it is also important to know that caregiver guilt can make your role as caregiver even more stressful as well as put your own health at risk. It is essential for your health to know that you are doing a courageous thing and fortunately, there are a number of things you can do that may help to relieve these feelings.
There is Only One of You
If you are feeling guilty about missing an event with your family because you are the only one available to stay at home to care for your parent, it is essential that you keep in mind that you cannot be in two places at once. If you feel guilty because your parent had a fall, keep in mind that you did everything possible to keep them safe and accidents happen. If you feel guilty for hiring in-home care for your parent, know that this is going to be beneficial for both you and your parent. For example, a home care provider will be able to provide companionship to your parent while you attend a family event.
Strategies to Cope with Caregivers Guilt
When dealing with caregiver’s guilt, there are three strategies you can utilize to help you cope with the guilt:
- Identify your feelings-in order to cope with the guilt, it is essential that you recognize any negative emotions you may be having.
- Identify expectations-once you recognize the guilt, it is important to ask yourself what expectations of yourself you have failed to live up to that may be causing these feelings.
- Recognize realistic expectations-if your expectations of yourself are not realistic, you need to let the guilt go. If they are realist, think about how you can handle a situation the next time.
You may not be able to totally rid yourself of the guilt, but it is important that you are totally honest with yourself and the situation. Understand that there is one of you and you are doing what you can to ensure that your parent is safe and comfortable. It is often helpful to talk about your feelings with another family member or friend. If there are local caregiver support groups, it may also help to talk with others who are in the same situation as you and understand your feelings.
If you or a family member near Lauderhill, FL are in need of caregiver services, call the caring professionals at Star Multi Care today at (954) 870-4770. Providing Service in Ft. Lauderdale, Boca Raton, Pompano Beach, Delray Beach, Coconut Creek, Taramac, Margate, and surrounding Florida cities.
Source
http://www.aarp.org/home-family/caregiving/info-2015/caregiver-guilt-silblings-parents-jacobs.html
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