Now, as promised, I'm continuing with Leeza Gibbons' commandments
for caregivers-- in my last post I explained her first commandment was "Take Your Oxygen First":
Commandment 2:
"NEVER ASSUME" -- anything about a loved one without having
all the necessary information. Making
assumptions about each other can lead to anger and resentment.
Commandment 3:
"HAVE ONGOING FAMILY CONFERENCES" -- about the roles and responsibilities of
everyone involved.
Commandment 4: "DO NOT ISOLATE" – yourself if you
are a caregiver. A caregiver support
group can help you to cope with the stresses.
Commandment 5: "DO NOT TAKE ANYTHING PERSONALLY" –
because it isn't about you.
Commandment
6: "PLAN AHEAD/HAVE CONTINGENCY
PLANS" – in my book I call this a willingness to be creative and flexible!
Commandment
7: "DO NOT FALL PREY TO SHAME
& STIGMA" – if you are a caregiver and are becoming depressed, or have
other issues, don't let shame or stigma keep you from getting the help you
need.
Commandment
8: "USE COMMUNITY RESOURCES" – available
in your area and online. Both the
caregiver and the loved one can benefit from the many programs offered.
Commandment
9: "HONOR SACRED MEMORIES" – the whole family should be involved in
preserving family stories.
Commandment 10: "FIND HUMOR IN MANY PLACES" – sometimes
you have to laugh so you don't cry, but any laughter is good for caregivers --
and their loved ones.
