Community Care Givers: Caring for Each Other as We Age

Cancer. Alzheimer’s disease. Heart disease. These are just a few of the things that we may face as we age. We don’t like to think about our own mortality and the things that can affect us, but it is important to have a plan in place if something does happen, not only for ourselves but also for those we care about.

I believe that living in community is a better solution than nursing homes or other forms of elder care.

Our culture tends to perceive caregivers as individuals who care for sick or dying family members. Mothers can care for children with terminal illnesses. Daughters can care for their parents stricken by dementia. Some elder women don’t have anyone to care for them at all. What if we came together to care for each other? We can change the perception of caregivers.

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Click below to read more ideas about caretakers living in community.

Being a caregiver is no easy task. The increased stress on the individual providing the primary support and care for someone who is sick can be overwhelming. Living in community can provide a respite for the primary care giver and allow other members of the household and community to step up and help out. It is equally important to care for the caregivers in the community.

Here are some tips for caregivers in community.

1. Stay healthy and active.Don’t neglect your own health to care for another community member.
   

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2. Establish a community network. Experts often suggest that caregivers reach out to friends when they are feeling stressed. Imagine a shared housing situation where everyone supports one another.
3. Make use of specific skills. Is someone in your community a retired nurse? Does someone make the most amazing gourmet meals? Everyone in your home has talents and skills that can make caretaking easier.
4. Stay organized. It is easy to let things get out of hand when you feel overwhelmed with caring for another person. Try to stay organized and work with your housemates to make things easier.
5. Be positive. It is very important that you remain positive as you care for someone who is ill or dying. Other women in your community can help keep your spirits up and provide support.

For more information on dealing with stress as a caregiver, this article from AARP is full of great advice and information.

I believe that building community can impact our lives in a number of ways. Visit my website for more information on Women for Living in Community.