Caring for persons with disabilities

If you are (or are going to be) someone who cares for those with disabilities, you can expect it to become challenging when it comes to combining caregiving with personal and everyday needs. Whether you’re a healthcare professional or a family caregiver, it isn’t easy to take on this responsibility which is why we’ve compiled a few tips to help you manage.

Stay informed

• Gather as much information as possible about the loved one’s/patient’s condition from reputable sources. This includes asking questions about their condition and what they need in order to receive the best care.
• Discuss issues and details with others who will be involved in the care of your loved one/patient so that everyone understands what is happening and what care and treatment need to be followed.
• Document their medical history and keep it current. This includes making sure to monitor the person who has special needs and be aware of any signs of mental or physical abuse.

Be empowering

• Think about and focus on what you and your loved one/patient can do. This includes everything movement and activities both indoors and outdoors. For example, if your loved one/patient needs access to a ramp, find reliable service providers for installation thereof in the home, and call ahead to recreational facilities about whether they provide access to ramps.
• Find appropriate milestones and celebrate them with your loved one/patient. This isn’t limited to birthdays and special events, it also includes moments that signify when a particular challenge has been overcome that they’ve been struggling with or trying to improve.
• If it is possible, teach your loved one/patient to be as independent and self-assured as possible. This can help them to feel in control of their lives and comfortable by accepting the way things are or the way they may have changed.

Get support

• Friends and family members can provide support in various ways and in many cases, they’d want to help you. Think about how you would like them to help (whether it’s something big or small) and ask them to assist you.
• Online or local support groups are there to help you. They can give you the chance to connect with people who are in similar situations and would be able to share information. These groups can also help to overcome any fear or isolation that you may be experiencing as a caregiver.
• Community services, counselors, and healthcare providers are a few other options for resources to help you in your caregiving journey.

Take care of yourself

• Even if you think of yourself as a strong caregiver, you still need to stay healthy for yourself as much as for your loved one/patient. Try your best to maintain a routine that allows you to feel your best.
• Maintain personal interests, friendships, and hobbies. It is important that caregiving does not consume all of your time. Balance is important for your own wellbeing as much as that of your loved one/patient.
• Make a mental note to take regular breaks. Whether it’s a short evening walk, a relaxing bath, or a retreat away from the caregiving domain, you need to change your scenery and take some time to relax your body and mind.

When it comes to caregiving, the wellbeing of your loved one/patient is of significant concern and should not be taken lightly. However, it is also important to remember that the caregiver needs care as well. Do not be shy to reach out for help because healthcare providers, support groups, and the like are there for that exact reason- to help you.

Should you like to get in touch with us, please feel free to do so on our contact page or via email. If you’re looking to help those with learning disabilities, take a look at some of our shifts available here.

Source:

https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/disabilityandhealth/family.html