Caregiver Support
Caregiver Support
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any of us serve as caregivers at some point in our lives—especially as we grow older. If you unexpectedly find yourself in a caregiver role, please know that there are plenty of services out there to help you. This section of the Guide explains the many forms of support that can help keep your loved one living independently for as long as possible, while taking into consideration your needs as a caregiver.
Ten Tips for Caregivers
Respite care (volunteer or paid), Home Health Agencies or inhome non-medical care may be the answer. Or you may decide to hire a geriatric care manager to arrange and oversee your loved one’s care. Perhaps adult day care may be appropriate for your situation. This section will give you an overview of all of these services and more, and local resources for finding the support you need.
4. Educate yourself about your loved one’s condition and how to communicate effectively with doctors.
In addition, it includes helpful checklists, health screening information, tips on choosing a doctor and even making your hospital stay pleasant, if you or your loved one should need to spend time there. We are fortunate to have an abundance of these resources in Allegheny County; consider taking advantage of them. After all, you can’t adequately care for someone else if you don’t care for yourself, as well.
1. Caregiving is a job and respite is your earned right. Reward yourself with respite breaks often. 2. Watch out for signs of depression, and don’t delay in getting professional help when you need it. 3. When people offer to help, accept the offer and suggest specific things that they can do.
5. There’s a difference between caring and doing. Be open to technologies and ideas that promote your loved one’s independence. 6. Trust your instincts. Most of the time they’ll lead you in the right direction. 7. Caregivers often do a lot of lifting, pushing and pulling. Be good to your back. 8. Grieve for your losses and then allow yourself to dream new dreams. 9. Seek support from other caregivers. There is great strength in knowing that you are not alone. 10. Stand up for your rights as a caregiver and a citizen. Provided by the National Family Caregivers Association.
I N - HO M E S E N I O R CAR E
With BAYADA Home Health Care…
“I found the perfect match for extra help at home.”
Helping individuals maintain full and independent lives in the comfort of their own home.
– Mary Lou A., Client
HHA Peggy Peck with Mary Lou A.
With a broad range of services and a team of professionals committed to keeping people of all ages safe at home, BAYADA provides: • Nursing and assistive care • Thoroughly screened health care professionals • Clinical support 24 hours, 7 days • A variety of payment options
Serving the Greater Pittsburgh Area
412-653-6100 South & East 412-787-0709 North & West 412-406-7667 Allegheny Valley www.comfortkeepers.com
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2013 Allegheny County Senior Resource Guide
BAYADA specialty practices include Home Health Care, Pediatrics, Hospice, and Habilitation.
Call 412-374-1440 or 877-412-8950 | www.bayada.com
Compassion. Excellence. Reliability.