When an elderly loved one can no longer fully care for themselves, the responsibility is commonly taken on by family members. What often begins as part-time help such as paying bills or driving Mom or Dad to appointments may quickly become full-time work. 45 million Americans are currently struggling to balance their own lives while caring for aging loved ones. If you are one of them, then you know first-hand the many challenges and rewards that come with being a family caregiver in Phoenix.
Caregiving is no easy task, and is likely just one of many things you do. Working, raising kids, taking care of your own health, and maintaining a personal life are all priorities that need juggling. Whether you provide minimal care, such as errand-running, or engage in hands-on activities such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation, becoming a caregiver in Phoenix probably took you by surprise— and you are not alone. Over 40 percent of caregiving Americans say they were unprepared and felt they had no choice in providing care for a senior family member.
This combination of being blindsided and losing your own time (and possibly money) is overwhelming or many— but there is a bright side, and there are rewards:
- Caregiving increases sharing and renews closeness with senior loved ones
- The majority of family caregivers in Phoenix report that caregiving makes them feel useful
- There is satisfaction in knowing your family member is receiving help while staying connected to the community
- Studies suggest that occupying multiple roles in the family, such as becoming a family caregiver for Phoenix relatives, may lead to better health, higher self esteem, and improved overall well-being (there is a threshold, however, and too much work is detrimental)
If you are a caregiver in the Phoenix area, it is essential that you find outlets for stress, stay connected to friends and other caregivers, and ask for help when you need it.
At Cypress Homecare, we provide resources and support for family members thrust into the caregiving role. From online information to affordable home care options, the staff at Arizona’s number one private homecare agency can help you navigate this challenging time. If you have questions about how to provide the best Phoenix at home care services for your loved one, please call 602-264-8009 or Contact Us Online.
