One of the greatest gifts you can give a terminally ill family member is the comfort of allowing them to live their final moments comfortably at home surrounded by individuals who genuinely love and care for them. After all, everyone feels more at peace when they’re in their own home, in their own beds, and are around familiar sights and sounds. Plus, when you’re confined to a hospital, it can lower your morale and cause severe depression. Being at home, however, provides the patient with comfort and peace. On the other hand, it can lead to stress and frustration within the caregiver.
Know Your Limits and Don’t Exceed Them
Caring for a terminally ill relative is hard work and there will times when you become frustrated and burned out. This is normal. Be aware of “caregiver burnout” and if you start to feel agitated or anxious, depressed, irritable, fatigue, sleepiness, or insomnia, seek help right away. Caregiver burnout is very real and must be taken seriously.
Always Take Care of Your Needs
It can be easy to forget about your own needs and focus solely on caring for your loved one, but if you abandon your needs it can become not only physically, but emotionally draining as well. Be sure to take necessary breaks and if you become tired, get the rest that your body requires. You should also seek the assistance of support groups. There are online and offline groups that provide support to caregivers who are caring for terminally ill family members. Seek them out and tell them exactly how you’re feeling. The members of the group will be able to relate to your situation and can offer advice to make the process easier.
In conclusion, there can be tremendous rewards and benefits to taking on the role of a caregiver to a terminally ill relative. Not only will you feel immense pride in knowing that you did a phenomenal job caring for them at home, they’ll enjoy being at home during this crucial time period.