Caregiver Support

Caregivers Need Support

Caring for a family member? You are NOT alone. About 80% of caregiving in the home is done by family.

Family members caring for a loved one with dementia are at high risk for exhaustion and caregiver burnout. It’s the leading cause of elder abuse. Learn ways to take care of yourself or you won’t be able to take care of anyone else. Know when it’s time for long term care.

Caregivers also often become ill from the stress of caregiving. Make sure your own health records include that you are a caregiver for someone at home. This information will alert your hospital staff that your loved one may need urgent help at home.

Ways for Caregivers to Avoid Exhaustion and Burnout

• Take time to do something for yourself every day.
• You don’t need to do everything yourself.
• Ask for help in specific ways-meal preparation, household chores or maintenance.
• Take care of your own health, eat healthy, and exercise.
• Learn about the disease process so you know what to expect.
• Join a support group- in person, online or by phone.
• Don’t take frustration, anger or difficult behavior problems personally.
• Use Adult Daycare, Home Care, or Respite.

Respite Care for Rhode Islanders

Respite care is planned or emergency care for individuals over the age of 60 when the caregiver needs a break.

The Diocese of Providence offers the CareBreaks Respite program, which can be used occasionally or at a scheduled time when a caregiver needs help. The CareBreaks program can send help into the home or arrange participation in a day program or overnight in an assisted living or nursing facility. The Diocese of Providence also offers a variety of other programs that assist Seniors in their home.  You do not have to be Catholic to receive services.

Caregiver support groups offer a helpful place where caregivers can share their experiences and help solve caregiving challenges. Studies have shown that Caregiver support groups improve the quality of life for caregivers and delay long term care placement for care recipients.