By Karla Sullivan
After researching the various jobs of a caregiver in celebration of National Caregivers Month, the types of care giving is extensive. Approximately 1 in 4 adults, is taking care of the sick or elderly in some sort of care giving role whether it be a personal family member or skilled, paid caregivers.
What are those types?
Defined by Medicare, custodial care refers to non-skilled, personal care, such as those that help with activities of daily living like bathing, dressing, eating, moving around or using a bathroom. Medicare does not cover the cost. Usually family members, jump in to provide assistance.
Home health care, covered by Medicare, are hired skilled home health aides or nursing services, usually intermittent or part time. This also includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech and language services handled by caregivers.
Hospice offers care for people who are terminally ill, typically a team oriented approach that can provide support to the patient’s family as well.
Impatient care refers to health care for those admitted to a hospital or health care facility as well as long term hospital care which refers to acute care hospitals that provide treatment for patients who stay, on average, more than 25 days which is also covered by Medicare.
So care giving whether it identifies family caregivers to care for their loved ones or those who care give for a living should be complimented and rewarded for the wide range of physical or mental support that they give to others.
So regardless of the type of care giving that you do, it is so important to nurture yourself as you care for others.
The following are suggestions to help alleviate stress and maintain health:
· A day, once a week, only for you that means no phone calls, no emails and no text messages
· Aroma therapy with flavors such as blueberry, mango or lavender to soothe the senses
· Set aside hours to read or keep up with your hobbies
· Keep up with regular physical exams
· Get acquainted with support services, if you need it
· Nurture your own social relationships
· Make sure you are getting enough rest
· Exercise, with a walk or trip to a health club
· Eat healthy
· Be involved in a faith-based community
Always keep your health, legal and financial information up to date. Your ability to be a good care taker depends on your ability to maintain your emotional and physical well being.
