Caregiving can be extremely satisfying. Caring for the frail or poorly at home provides a more comfortable nursing home or senior home alternative for the person who needs care. However, caregiving can also be challenging, especially when you’re new to the role and unsure what to expect.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly a quarter of adults in the U.S. provided caregiving in the past month. You may be in a caregiver situation with in-home care already. Or, you might be providing senior care for a loved one in the future. View more stats about caregiving from the CDC.
Use the following tips for an easier transition when embarking on a caregiver role.
4 Things You’ll Be Glad You Knew Before Becoming a Caregiver
1. Caregivers Need Support, Too
If you’ve ever flown on an airplane, you'll know this common safety direction. “Put on your mask before you help others.” That’s important to remember with caregiving.
Adding caregiving responsibilities to a daily routine can make it more difficult to maintain your health. If your health is neglected, providing the best care is harder. Make time for self-care practices, like:
Regular exercise: From a short walk to more intense training, try to get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical exercise and at least two days of muscle-strengthening exercise each week.
Mental health practices: These include activities like meditation, deep breathing, journaling, or yoga.
Social support: Talk regularly to friends or other family members so you can vent and connect about various topics.
It's easier to care for others when you're taken care of. Be sure to make time for yourself so you feel your best.
2. You Could Get Paid
You can get paid to care for a family member in many states. Government-sponsored programs, including through Medicaid, provide remuneration to caregivers consumers choose. This includes when they hire a family member or friend as a caregiver. BURD Home Health can help you get started.
By contacting a BURD Home Health, you can become a caregiver paid by Medicaid. That means you can get compensation for home healthcare or caregiving services.
3. Information Is Power
There may be free senior services available in your area. Knowing the available resources can alleviate duties and make providing for your loved one easier. You may even connect with a social worker to provide expert support.
Senior services may include:
Grocery store and drug store deliveries
Low-cost senior center programs
Free or low-cost meal delivery
Financial management services
Transportation services
Emergency medical alert systems
You can find your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) online. Contact them for senior services in your location.
4. Caregivers Make an Impact
The vast majority of older adults prefer to live at home. A 2024 Forbes report states that 92% of senior adults would rather stay in their current house. That's compared to only 8% who would be content to live in an assisted living facility.
Some of the main reasons include:
Feeling safe in their neighborhood
A preference for a quiet living environment
Improved mental health
Control of personal space
Caring for a loved one at home allows them to stay where they feel comfortable, prevents them from adapting to new conditions and caretakers, and helps them maintain control and contentment.
Caregiving is one of the most meaningful roles someone can take on. As a caregiver, you can positively impact the lives of your loved ones.
Get Valuable Support as a Caregiver
While becoming a caregiver can take some adjusting to in the beginning, with the right strategy and support, it can be a meaningful role in one's life. Use caregiving resources and remember to take care of yourself, too.
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