Caring for a loved one is one of the most rewarding yet challenging responsibilities a person can undertake. Whether you’re a full-time family caregiver or only help out on the weekends, you deserve recognition for your hard work. Most, if not all, caregivers deal with lots of care challenges along the way. Fortunately, BrightStar Care of Central DuPage-Wheaton can help you navigate them. We’re well aware of the local community issues impacting seniors and can offer resources to our clients and their families. Learn more about common challenges and how to rise to the occasion.
Challenge 1: Ensuring Elderly Safety at Home
One of the most significant concerns for caregivers is keeping their loved ones safe. Many older folks prefer to age in place instead of heading to an assisted living facility, which brings up even more questions about safety. However, making your loved one’s home environment is easier than you might think. Here are some strategies for addressing home safety concerns:
Implement Safer Design Choices
Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults, but they’re often preventable with small changes to the home environment. Consider installing grab bars and handrails along the stairs and in the bathroom. Use non-slip flooring wherever possible, and improve lighting throughout your loved one’s home. Don’t forget to declutter and remove tripping hazards, too!
Use Technology for Peace of Mind
Medical alert systems have been around for a while, but today, additional technologies are available to keep your loved ones safe. You might consider installing security cameras or motion sensors around your loved one’s home, with their permission, to monitor any unusual activity. These are particularly useful for people with dementia who may wander.
Encourage Physical Fitness
Don’t underestimate the role of physical strength, balance, and coordination! Encourage gentle exercises such as yoga, tai chi, or walking to maintain mobility and reduce the chances of injury.
Challenge 2: Managing Home Care Costs
Beyond elderly safety concerns in DuPage County, home care costs are another challenge many caregivers face. Too often, families forego important healthcare services because they’re worried about the price tag. Thankfully, BrightStar Care is dedicated to helping our community access affordable home care solutions. Try these approaches to reduce the cost of home care:
Make Use of All Financial Resources
Many caregivers aren’t aware of the financial aid programs available to support their efforts. Depending on your loved one’s circumstances, they may be eligible for the following:
- Medicare and Medicaid—Is your loved one covered by Medicare or Medicaid? It pays to know the details of their coverage so you can better understand what is paid for under their plan. Sometimes, home care is partially covered.
- Veterans Benefits—If your loved one served in the military, the Veterans Administration offers programs to cover caregivers or in-home services.
- Long-Term Care Insurance—Long-term care insurance can make a big difference in the affordability of home care. Review any existing policies to determine whether they cover in-home services or caregiving costs.
Explore Tax Deductions
Caregiving expenses may qualify for tax deductions. Throughout the year, keep a record of any out-of-pocket caregiving expenses, such as medical supplies or travel costs. If you’re paying for things on behalf of your loved one, you may be able to claim additional tax credits for yourself.
Challenge 3: Caring for Special Needs
Caregivers for individuals with special needs face a unique set of challenges. Individualized care plans (ICPs) are among the best ways to ensure consistent, tailored support for your loved one. These plans show collaboration with healthcare providers and make note of specific needs and preferences. The best ICPs include input from the individuals with special needs whenever possible. Other ways to support your loved one include:
- Educational Resources—If you’re caring for a child with special needs, reach out to their school to create an Individual Education Program (IEP) tailored to their strengths and challenges.
- Therapy and Counseling—Therapy and counseling can make a big difference to individuals with special needs. Specific types of therapy, such as occupational or speech, can also enhance their quality of life.
- Peer Communities—Support groups provide a platform for exchanging resources, advice, and emotional support. Whether it’s a Facebook group or a local meetup, connecting with others who know your challenges can be invaluable.
Challenge 4: Defeating Caregiver Burnout
Caregiver burnout is a massive problem that many of our community members face. The physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion stemming from caregiving responsibilities can feel impossible to deal with. This burnout can lead to feelings of frustration, resentment, depression, or even a sense of hopelessness. Nevertheless, there is plenty you can do to combat burnout. Our DuPage-Wheaton elderly care professionals recommend these strategies for dealing with exhaustion:
- Establish a self-care routine with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and consistent sleep. Get yourself an occasional treat for a job well done!
- Ask for help and delegate tasks to family members, friends, or professional caregivers.
- Seek emotional support through counseling or caregiver support groups.
- Set boundaries and learn to say no when feeling overwhelmed. This is easier when you get comfortable asking for help.
- Take breaks, even short ones, to focus on personal interests and hobbies.
Make BrightStar Care Part of Your Support Network
Navigating the challenges of caregiving can feel overwhelming, but with the right tools and mindset, you can do it! By making safety a priority, approaching home care costs strategically, and supporting your loved one’s unique needs, you enhance their quality of life and increase your own peace of mind. BrightStar Care is here for people all over DuPage County, supporting families as they navigate elder care, consumer taxes, and healthcare costs. Contact us today for support as you work to be the best caregiver you can be.