Caregivers play an important role in the recovery process after a loved one has a stroke. On average, caregivers spend 20 hours per week providing care, with 13% spending over 40 hours. Caregivers assist with daily tasks, monitor health, and provide support. This can be rewarding but also challenging and overwhelming. Caregivers have higher rates of depression and stress than the general population and should prioritize self-care. Support groups and treatment like medication or therapy can help caregivers cope.
A group therapy psychoeducational talk on self-care needs of people who care for loved one's that have survived strokes. Focuses on the role changes, coping, self-care and mental health needs of caretakers.
In this lesson, you’ll:
- Learn about your own support needs: Decide when you need support, how much is needed, and from whom.
- Learn how to find people and places for support.
- Understand the benefits and risks of online support.
Pain management is a critical component to patient care. However, it is leading to opioid addiction at an alarming rate in the United States. For many patients, a paradigm shift is needed to go from pain management to pain recovery.
Let's Talk About It: Ovarian Cancer - The Power of Traditionsbkling
The holiday season can be a time marked by family and seasonal traditions. Traditions can be comforting and centering in a way that helps us hold onto a sense of normalcy. But this time can also feel hard when the changes in your health seem more obvious compared to other times.
Join us as we talk together about embracing the holiday season with awareness for all the ways you might experience the weeks ahead.
A group therapy psychoeducational talk on self-care needs of people who care for loved one's that have survived strokes. Focuses on the role changes, coping, self-care and mental health needs of caretakers.
In this lesson, you’ll:
- Learn about your own support needs: Decide when you need support, how much is needed, and from whom.
- Learn how to find people and places for support.
- Understand the benefits and risks of online support.
Pain management is a critical component to patient care. However, it is leading to opioid addiction at an alarming rate in the United States. For many patients, a paradigm shift is needed to go from pain management to pain recovery.
Let's Talk About It: Ovarian Cancer - The Power of Traditionsbkling
The holiday season can be a time marked by family and seasonal traditions. Traditions can be comforting and centering in a way that helps us hold onto a sense of normalcy. But this time can also feel hard when the changes in your health seem more obvious compared to other times.
Join us as we talk together about embracing the holiday season with awareness for all the ways you might experience the weeks ahead.
Coping after cancer – what does this mean and how can coping help you? Whether you’ve just been diagnosed with colorectal cancer or are managing side effects after treatment, you have been impacted greatly and life has likely changed.
Coping strategies can help you regain a sense of control, and learn that there is always hope for an improved quality of life. This webinar will touch on how to successfully integrate coping so you and your support team can face the road going forward.
Bipolar Disorder is a serious Mental Illness which can be managed with the help of medication and psychotherapy. Diagnosis is the first step but unfortunately it typically happens 10 years after onset of first symptoms. Mood swings between mania, hypomania and depression characterise Bipolar Disorder.
If you need your loved one to walk on the pathway to recovery,not only do you need to be the one giving them a gentle pushtowards it, you need to walk beside them! Anyone who is willing to change can get well...
The key to de-stressing is isolating yourself from stressors. But how to do it? Here are 30 effective techniques that you can use to minimize the negative impact of stressors on your life.
Bipolar Disorder being a Bio-Chemical condition, is primarily treated with medication. Along with medication, Psychotherapy can help in recovery. Choose your Psychotherapist after a proper screening process. A Psychotherapist's role is also to ensure adherence and to spot early symptoms of mood swings.
When a person gets sick, there is an underlying imbalance, whether it is physical, spiritual, emotional or mental. When the body is free of stress, it is able to heal itself quickly and naturally.
You will walk out feeling lighter and more clear about your direction. You can choose to focus on physical issues like joint pain, or emotional issues.
Depression is a disorder that is evidenced by excessive sadness, loss of interest in enjoyable things, and low motivation.
It is normal to experience feelings of sadness and despair in response to adverse life events. Such events could include loss, major life changes, stress, or disappointment. In most cases, the sad feelings resolve as you come to terms with the changes in your life. In situations such as bereavement, these feelings may persist for months and return at signicant times, such as birthdays and anniversaries related to the lost loved one. Provided you have times when you can enjoy things, however, this sadness is not a sign of depression.
Who is a Counselor and What is Counseling?Adam Smith
There are some factors to consider to choose a counselor and his services will become an important need if and when one observe radical changes with oneself. Some losses and tensions are difficult to handle on own.
Exploring Yogic Techniques for Managing Bipolar DisorderVijay Nallawala
Senior Yoga Facilitator, Shrikant Kshirsagar delivered this talk with demonstration of Yoga asanas/ techniques at BipolarIndia's WORLD BIPOLAR DAY Conference in Mumbai on March 30th, 2019. His well researched presentation and demonstration of simple to practice breathing & stretching techniques were especially customised for the audience comprising Bipolar Disorder affected & their Caregivers.
Vijay Nallawala, Wellness Warrior, successfully lives with Bipolar Disorder and is founder of BipolarIndia. A Mental Health Activist, his talk on BipolarIndia's WORLD BIPOLAR DAY Conference, Mumbai on March 30th, 2019 was on how can we transcend Bipolar Disorder.
We know that Bipolar Disorder is a serious Mental Illness often requiring medication over one's lifetime. However with determination, a holistic approach, focus and discipline one can conquer and transcend this illness.
Yes, recovery is possible and one can live life fully.
His talk delineated the steps needed to walk towards recovery.
Emotional wellness does NOT simply mean you are happy all of the time. There is so much more to it.
It means you are able to identify your thoughts that cause the emotions you are feeling. And you are able to handle life’s stresses, adapt to change, and cope with difficult times.
We have control over our thoughts and behaviors so must use this information to create emotional wellness with ourselves.
Coping after cancer – what does this mean and how can coping help you? Whether you’ve just been diagnosed with colorectal cancer or are managing side effects after treatment, you have been impacted greatly and life has likely changed.
Coping strategies can help you regain a sense of control, and learn that there is always hope for an improved quality of life. This webinar will touch on how to successfully integrate coping so you and your support team can face the road going forward.
Bipolar Disorder is a serious Mental Illness which can be managed with the help of medication and psychotherapy. Diagnosis is the first step but unfortunately it typically happens 10 years after onset of first symptoms. Mood swings between mania, hypomania and depression characterise Bipolar Disorder.
If you need your loved one to walk on the pathway to recovery,not only do you need to be the one giving them a gentle pushtowards it, you need to walk beside them! Anyone who is willing to change can get well...
The key to de-stressing is isolating yourself from stressors. But how to do it? Here are 30 effective techniques that you can use to minimize the negative impact of stressors on your life.
Bipolar Disorder being a Bio-Chemical condition, is primarily treated with medication. Along with medication, Psychotherapy can help in recovery. Choose your Psychotherapist after a proper screening process. A Psychotherapist's role is also to ensure adherence and to spot early symptoms of mood swings.
When a person gets sick, there is an underlying imbalance, whether it is physical, spiritual, emotional or mental. When the body is free of stress, it is able to heal itself quickly and naturally.
You will walk out feeling lighter and more clear about your direction. You can choose to focus on physical issues like joint pain, or emotional issues.
Depression is a disorder that is evidenced by excessive sadness, loss of interest in enjoyable things, and low motivation.
It is normal to experience feelings of sadness and despair in response to adverse life events. Such events could include loss, major life changes, stress, or disappointment. In most cases, the sad feelings resolve as you come to terms with the changes in your life. In situations such as bereavement, these feelings may persist for months and return at signicant times, such as birthdays and anniversaries related to the lost loved one. Provided you have times when you can enjoy things, however, this sadness is not a sign of depression.
Who is a Counselor and What is Counseling?Adam Smith
There are some factors to consider to choose a counselor and his services will become an important need if and when one observe radical changes with oneself. Some losses and tensions are difficult to handle on own.
Exploring Yogic Techniques for Managing Bipolar DisorderVijay Nallawala
Senior Yoga Facilitator, Shrikant Kshirsagar delivered this talk with demonstration of Yoga asanas/ techniques at BipolarIndia's WORLD BIPOLAR DAY Conference in Mumbai on March 30th, 2019. His well researched presentation and demonstration of simple to practice breathing & stretching techniques were especially customised for the audience comprising Bipolar Disorder affected & their Caregivers.
Vijay Nallawala, Wellness Warrior, successfully lives with Bipolar Disorder and is founder of BipolarIndia. A Mental Health Activist, his talk on BipolarIndia's WORLD BIPOLAR DAY Conference, Mumbai on March 30th, 2019 was on how can we transcend Bipolar Disorder.
We know that Bipolar Disorder is a serious Mental Illness often requiring medication over one's lifetime. However with determination, a holistic approach, focus and discipline one can conquer and transcend this illness.
Yes, recovery is possible and one can live life fully.
His talk delineated the steps needed to walk towards recovery.
Emotional wellness does NOT simply mean you are happy all of the time. There is so much more to it.
It means you are able to identify your thoughts that cause the emotions you are feeling. And you are able to handle life’s stresses, adapt to change, and cope with difficult times.
We have control over our thoughts and behaviors so must use this information to create emotional wellness with ourselves.
An overview of a teacher summer institute designed for K-12 educators looking to connect sciences and area studies by gaining hands-on experience at a field station and in a home-stay abroad.
This presentation shares some resources and possibilities for incorporating Caribbean Studies into your Classroom. It provides an overview of the Digital Library of the Caribbean. Then, it provides a sample exercise on the U.S. Occupation of Haiti. It also highlights some of the types of materials and collections available in dLOC. dLOC is a freely accessible online collection that has hundreds of thousands of pages of Caribbean content available for use in the classroom.
Presented as part of Resources for Integrating Latin American Studies in the Classroom
Thursday, June 25, 2015
7:00 p.m. (US Eastern Standard Time)
This webinar series co-sponsored by the Centers for Latin American Studies at Florida International University, University of Florida & Vanderbilt University.
CANSA places the spotlight on Caregivers this CANSA Care Week 1 – 7 August 2014.
Who is a Caregiver?
A Caregiver is anyone who cares, without being paid, for a friend or family member who is fighting cancer and cannot cope without support.
“We feel that sometimes Caregivers’ loving care and support, which they lend to those affected by cancer, can go unnoticed. We really hope to change that; the wellbeing of a Caregiver is just as important as that of the Survivor they are caring for. This CANSA Care Week, we want to encourage everyone to celebrate and salute all Caregivers
The problem of infertility comes as a shock to people. It is an issue we want nobody to face in real life. Counseling a friend suffering from the issue and recommending the required help is what can be done, in order to share the load.
Everyone has bad days every now and again, but if you have a depressive disorder, you’re most likely living with constant feelings of sadness and hopelessness, and of being removed for everything.
Being a caregiver is a noble and selfless role that requires immense dedication and compassion. Caregivers devote their time and attention to the well-being of others, often neglecting their own needs in the process. However, it is crucial for caregivers to recognize the importance of self-care in order to maintain their own mental and emotional health.
Read more on: https://joel-landau.com/self-care-tips-for-the-selfless-caregiver/
The stress response
Eustress vs. Distress
Stress Origins & Body Systems: Neurochemical and Endocrine
Symptoms
Stress Related Illnesses
Recognize the Problem: ABC Strategy
The Resilience Factor
Stress Management, Stress Reduction and Lifestyle Changes
lifebulb.com-How to cure depression.pdflifebulb com
Discover proven ways to cure depression. Learn practical self-help techniques to boost your mood, reduce stress, and cultivate a positive mindset. Take control of your mental health and live a happier life with these expert tips and strategies
For more visit out website
https://www.lifebulb.com/
Learn how to cope with the emotions of diabetes. This guide helps you learn to deal with stress, depression and accepting that you have diabetes.
Liberty Medical
Living With Stress And Learning How To Manage ItLuis Gaviria
Living with Stress and Learning How to Manage It - Screencast (Slides with audio).
BPOP Bilingual Parent Outreach Program
Miami-Dade County Public Schools District
Stress Management Campaign Created by Luis Gaviria.
Ethanol (CH3CH2OH), or beverage alcohol, is a two-carbon alcohol
that is rapidly distributed in the body and brain. Ethanol alters many
neurochemical systems and has rewarding and addictive properties. It
is the oldest recreational drug and likely contributes to more morbidity,
mortality, and public health costs than all illicit drugs combined. The
5th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
(DSM-5) integrates alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence into a single
disorder called alcohol use disorder (AUD), with mild, moderate,
and severe subclassifications (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).
In the DSM-5, all types of substance abuse and dependence have been
combined into a single substance use disorder (SUD) on a continuum
from mild to severe. A diagnosis of AUD requires that at least two of
the 11 DSM-5 behaviors be present within a 12-month period (mild
AUD: 2–3 criteria; moderate AUD: 4–5 criteria; severe AUD: 6–11 criteria).
The four main behavioral effects of AUD are impaired control over
drinking, negative social consequences, risky use, and altered physiological
effects (tolerance, withdrawal). This chapter presents an overview
of the prevalence and harmful consequences of AUD in the U.S.,
the systemic nature of the disease, neurocircuitry and stages of AUD,
comorbidities, fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, genetic risk factors, and
pharmacotherapies for AUD.
micro teaching on communication m.sc nursing.pdfAnurag Sharma
Microteaching is a unique model of practice teaching. It is a viable instrument for the. desired change in the teaching behavior or the behavior potential which, in specified types of real. classroom situations, tends to facilitate the achievement of specified types of objectives.
Title: Sense of Smell
Presenter: Dr. Faiza, Assistant Professor of Physiology
Qualifications:
MBBS (Best Graduate, AIMC Lahore)
FCPS Physiology
ICMT, CHPE, DHPE (STMU)
MPH (GC University, Faisalabad)
MBA (Virtual University of Pakistan)
Learning Objectives:
Describe the primary categories of smells and the concept of odor blindness.
Explain the structure and location of the olfactory membrane and mucosa, including the types and roles of cells involved in olfaction.
Describe the pathway and mechanisms of olfactory signal transmission from the olfactory receptors to the brain.
Illustrate the biochemical cascade triggered by odorant binding to olfactory receptors, including the role of G-proteins and second messengers in generating an action potential.
Identify different types of olfactory disorders such as anosmia, hyposmia, hyperosmia, and dysosmia, including their potential causes.
Key Topics:
Olfactory Genes:
3% of the human genome accounts for olfactory genes.
400 genes for odorant receptors.
Olfactory Membrane:
Located in the superior part of the nasal cavity.
Medially: Folds downward along the superior septum.
Laterally: Folds over the superior turbinate and upper surface of the middle turbinate.
Total surface area: 5-10 square centimeters.
Olfactory Mucosa:
Olfactory Cells: Bipolar nerve cells derived from the CNS (100 million), with 4-25 olfactory cilia per cell.
Sustentacular Cells: Produce mucus and maintain ionic and molecular environment.
Basal Cells: Replace worn-out olfactory cells with an average lifespan of 1-2 months.
Bowman’s Gland: Secretes mucus.
Stimulation of Olfactory Cells:
Odorant dissolves in mucus and attaches to receptors on olfactory cilia.
Involves a cascade effect through G-proteins and second messengers, leading to depolarization and action potential generation in the olfactory nerve.
Quality of a Good Odorant:
Small (3-20 Carbon atoms), volatile, water-soluble, and lipid-soluble.
Facilitated by odorant-binding proteins in mucus.
Membrane Potential and Action Potential:
Resting membrane potential: -55mV.
Action potential frequency in the olfactory nerve increases with odorant strength.
Adaptation Towards the Sense of Smell:
Rapid adaptation within the first second, with further slow adaptation.
Psychological adaptation greater than receptor adaptation, involving feedback inhibition from the central nervous system.
Primary Sensations of Smell:
Camphoraceous, Musky, Floral, Pepperminty, Ethereal, Pungent, Putrid.
Odor Detection Threshold:
Examples: Hydrogen sulfide (0.0005 ppm), Methyl-mercaptan (0.002 ppm).
Some toxic substances are odorless at lethal concentrations.
Characteristics of Smell:
Odor blindness for single substances due to lack of appropriate receptor protein.
Behavioral and emotional influences of smell.
Transmission of Olfactory Signals:
From olfactory cells to glomeruli in the olfactory bulb, involving lateral inhibition.
Primitive, less old, and new olfactory systems with different path
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN HEALTHCARE.pdfAnujkumaranit
Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems. It encompasses tasks such as learning, reasoning, problem-solving, perception, and language understanding. AI technologies are revolutionizing various fields, from healthcare to finance, by enabling machines to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence.
Explore natural remedies for syphilis treatment in Singapore. Discover alternative therapies, herbal remedies, and lifestyle changes that may complement conventional treatments. Learn about holistic approaches to managing syphilis symptoms and supporting overall health.
NVBDCP.pptx Nation vector borne disease control programSapna Thakur
NVBDCP was launched in 2003-2004 . Vector-Borne Disease: Disease that results from an infection transmitted to humans and other animals by blood-feeding arthropods, such as mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas. Examples of vector-borne diseases include Dengue fever, West Nile Virus, Lyme disease, and malaria.
Thyroid Gland- Gross Anatomy by Dr. Rabia Inam Gandapore.pptx
Caregivers of Stroke Survivors
1. Caregivers:
Understanding The Affects of Caring For A
Loved One Who Has Survived A Stroke
Laura M. Cohen, B.A., Psychology Extern
VA Miami Health Center
June 18, 2013
2. As the primary caregiver for a stroke survivor,
You are an important part of the recovery process.
Potential Feelings
Rewarding
Challenging
Overwhelming
Caregiver Role
3. In a survey of 1,480 caregivers, it was
reported that:
On average, caregivers spend 20 hours
per week providing care.
13 % of caregivers spend more than 40
hours a week caring for loved ones.
How Caregivers Fit Into The U.S.
Healthcare System
4. Take care of someone who has a chronic illness
Taking part in informed decision making and treatment
planning
Coordinating appointments with healthcare professionals
Helping ensure that medications are refilled and taken properly
Helping with everyday tasks such as meal preparation, bathing
and toileting
What Does It Mean to Be A
Caregiver?
5. Assisting with walking and transportation
Monitoring survivor health
Being aware of pain, dietary instructions, depression
or risk factors that may lead to a second stroke
Managing financial or legal and end-of-life matters
Providing encouragement and support for your loved
one and family members
Supporting survivor independence
What Does It Mean to Be A
Caregiver?
7. A person’s “role” or place in the family helps define
who they are.
When a stroke happens, roles may no longer fit.
Types of Roles
Spouse
Parent
Changes in Relationships
8. Find new roles and things that your loved one can do
This will boost confidence.
Encourage your loved one to do as much as possible
Help when you need to.
Avoid being too protective.
Be patient
The stroke can make it hard to do simple tasks.
What Is You Loved One’s New Role In
The Family?
9. Help your loved one relearn skills in small steps
Start with easy tasks.
Slowly, add new skills.
Have a daily routine
Allow short, frequent times in the day to practice skills.
What Is You Loved One’s New Role In
The Family?
10. Remember that your loved one is facing a lot of changes
Realize that your loved one will always be your parent
Let your loved one make as many choices as possible
Be direct and firm if your loved one’s health or safety is an
issue
Tips for Changing Relationships
11. Caregivers may feel more stress than the general
population
Twice as likely to become depressed and frequently
experience sleep deprivation.
Less likely to seek treatment for these conditions.
Keep this in mind: Caring for yourself is just as
important as caring for your loved one.
Caregiver Stress & Depression
12. Sadness or an “empty” mood
Feeling guilty, worthless or helpless
Problems concentrating, remembering or making
decisions
Change in eating habits and/or weight changes
Feeling hopeless
Lack of energy or feeling tired and “slowed down”
Signs of Depression
13. Problems with sleep, such as trouble getting to
sleep, staying asleep or sleeping too much
Easily angered or irritable
Wanting to be alone or spending much time alone
Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and
activities, including sex, that were once enjoyed
Signs of Depression
14. If you have thoughts of killing yourself:
Get help right away!
Call 9-1-1 or your healthcare provider. This is a
serious problem.
RED FLAG: Suicidal Thoughts
15. Medicines, such as anti-depressants are almost always
helpful.
Psychotherapy (talk therapy) is used along with medicines.
Talk therapy gives you a safe place to talk about your
feelings.
Support groups provide a place to share your feelings with
other caregivers.
Other caregivers understand what you are going through.
They can help you find solutions to your problems.
Treatments to Discuss with
Healthcare Team
16. Taking care of yourself will make you a better caregiver.
Put taking care of yourself at the top of your list
Ask for help
Find time for yourself
Laugh and have fun
Caregiver Self-Care
17. 10 Tips for Caregivers: How to Cope
1. Accept that you cannot
do this alone
2. Educate yourself
3. Allow yourself to grieve
4. Learn to relax
5. Eat Well
6. Stay Active
7. Have Fun!
8. Stay Social
9. Get Support from Group
10. Take things one day at a
time
19. Family Caregiver Alliance. (1999). Work and eldercare. Retrieved October
23, 2008, from http://caregiver.org/caregiver/jsp/content_node.jsp?nodeid=413*
National Stroke Association (2012). Cregivers and Stroke: Caregivers Guide. Retrieved
June 13, 2013 from:
http://www.stroke.org/site/PageServer?pagename=careliving_guide#cg
Pandya, S.M. (2005). Caregiving in the United States. AARP Public Policy Institute.
Retrieved October 23, 2008, from http://www.aarp.org/relationships/caregiving/info-
2004/us_caregiving.html*
Uphold, C.R., Hanjian, J.M., Wing, K.L., Findley, K.E., & Knauff, L. (2011). Resources &
Education for Stroke Caregivers' Understanding & Empowerment (RESCUE). Web-
Based Informational Materials for Caregivers of Veterans Post-Stroke. Retrieved June
13, 2013, from: http://www.rorc.research.va.gov/rescue/index.cfm
Wilken, C.S. (2006). Balancing work and caregiving: A guide for employers. University of
Florida IFAS Extension. Retrieved October 23, 2008, from
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/FY873*;
References
Editor's Notes
As the primary caregiver for a stroke survivor, you are a very important part of the recovery process. While this role can be very rewarding, it can also be challenging. As you adjust to these life changes, you will have many questions and concerns. This talk will help you during the recovery journey, with tips on how to improve well-being for both your loved one and you.Once your loved one leaves the hospital, the primary responsibility for his or her everyday care switches from healthcare professionals to you. It is normal to feel unsure or anxious—developing a new routine and adjusting to the changes brought about by stroke may seem overwhelming.
As a caregiver, you are a crucial extension of the long-term healthcare system. In a survey of 1,480 caregivers, it was reported that: On average, caregivers spend 20 hours per week providing care. 13 % of caregivers spend more than 40 hours a week caring for loved ones.
An individual, such as a physician, nurse, social worker, or family member who assists in the identification, prevention, or treatment of an illness or disability.While the role of a caregiver varies, you may be doing some of the following throughout the recovery process: Taking part in informed decision making and treatment planning Coordinating appointments with healthcare professionals; helping ensure that medications are refilled and taken properly Helping with everyday tasks such as meal preparation, bathing and toileting
Assisting with walking and transportation Monitoring survivor health; being aware of pain, dietary instructions, depression or risk factors that may lead to a second stroke Managing financial or legal and end-of-life matters Providing encouragement and support for your loved one and family members Supporting survivor independence
How Do Roles Change After Stroke?A person’s “role” or place in the family helps define who they are. For example, a person’s role could be that of parent or spouse. When a stroke happens, roles may no longer fit. SpouseBeing the spouse or partner of a stroke survivor brings special hardships. The person who once was an equal partner may now rely heavily on you. You may begin to feel more like a parent than a husband or wife. Feelings of loneliness are common. Problems with sexual intimacy and financial concerns can also strain the relationship. Learn more about sex after stroke and how to manage your loved one's finances.Parent and ChildAn adult child caring for a parent brings its own challenges. It may seem that you are caring for or “parenting” your parent. The role reversal can be hard for both you and your loved one. Helping with personal care needs like bathing can cause anxiety and embarrassment. Another challenge can be learning how to balance caregiving with your own family responsibilities. However, keep in mind that caring for a parent can be one of the best experiences of your life. You’ll have the chance to grow closer and learn about one another. Remember that your loved one is facing a lot of changes – Try to understand how hard it is for him or her to accept your care. Realize that your loved one will always be your parent – It is important to treat your loved one as an adult. Be respectful.Let your loved one make as many choices as possible – Ask for your loved one’s advice. Treat your loved one as an equal. Be direct and firm if your loved one’s health or safety is an issue –Accept that you will make mistakes. Remember that the most important thing is to give love.
Your loved one may be different physically, mentally and emotionally. A lot may have changed. What has not changed is that your loved one is still part of the family. Even if your loved one cannot fulfill past roles, he or she can still contribute. Find new roles and things that your loved one can do – This will boost confidence.Encourage your loved one to do as much as possible – Help when you need to. But, avoid being too protective.Be patient – The stroke can make it hard to do simple tasks.
Help your loved one relearn skills in small steps – Start with easy tasks. Slowly, add new skills. Have a daily routine – Allow short, frequent times in the day to practice skills.
Remember that your loved one is facing a lot of changes – Try to understand how hard it is for him or her to accept your care. Realize that your loved one will always be your parent – It is important to treat your loved one as an adult. Be respectful.Let your loved one make as many choices as possible – Ask for your loved one’s advice. Treat your loved one as an equal. Be direct and firm if your loved one’s health or safety is an issue –Accept that you will make mistakes. Remember that the most important thing is to give love.
Caregivers may feel more stress than the general population, Stress causes increased blood pressure and heart rate.Excessive stress puts you sleep problems and depression. are twice as likely to become depressed and frequently experience sleep deprivation. Depression and sleep deprivation interfere with overall quality of life.Keep this in mind: Caring for yourself is just as important as caring for your loved one. Feeling exceptionally tired, irritable or down in the dumps is not “just part of” caregiving. Notice how you are feeling, get regular check-ups and seek counseling for feelings that are overwhelming or draining. Making the time to care for yourself will benefit both you and your loved one. However, they are less likely to seek treatment for these conditions
How Do You Know if You Are Depressed?The signs and symptoms of depression vary from person to person. Without treatment, symptoms of depression can last for weeks, months or years. Here is a list of the signs and symptoms of depression. If you have any of these signs for more than two weeks, talk to your healthcare team.Sadness or an “empty” moodFeeling guilty, worthless or helplessProblems concentrating, remembering or making decisionsChange in eating habits and/or weight changesFeeling hopelessLack of energy or feeling tired and “slowed down”
Problems with sleep, such as trouble getting to sleep, staying asleep or sleeping too muchEasily angered or irritableWanting to be alone or spending much time aloneLoss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities, including sex, that were once enjoyed
Ignoring the stress of caregiving is the number one cause of “caregiver burn-out”. Be honest with yourself about what you are feeling. Do not pretend that everything is okay. Proper treatment helps most people with depression. Ask your healthcare team about the best treatment for you.Medicines, such as anti-depressants are almost always helpful. Psychotherapy (talk therapy) is used along with medicines. Talk therapy gives you a safe place to talk about your feelings. Support groups provide a place to share your feelings with other caregivers.Other caregivers understand what you are going through. They can help you find solutions to your problems.
Taking care of yourself will make you a better caregiver.Put taking care of yourself at the top of your list – Have regular medical check-ups. Eat right and exercise. Ask for help – Take on only what you can manage. Don’t try to do everything by yourself. Be prepared with a mental list of ways other people can help.Find time for yourself – You need breaks from caregiving. Do things you enjoy. Go for walks or visit your friends. Take yoga or relaxation classes. Get a massage. Treat yourself to special outings on a regular basis. Laugh and have fun – Joke with your loved one. Laugh out loud. Read a funny book. Watch a funny movie or a comedy on TV.
10 Tips for caregivers: How to cope1. Accept that you cannot do this alone. Do not feel guilty enlisting the help of friends and family. Assign them specific tasks if they offer to help.2. Educate yourself. Learn about your loved one’s condition and how to effectively communicate with healthcare professionals. 3. Allow yourself to grieve. It takes time to accept the loss of your former lifestyle/relationship, but remember that time will also bring about new goals and dreams for you and your loved one.4. Learn to relax. There are many techniques that you can use, from walking or writing to enrolling in a yoga class or practicing meditation.5. Eat well. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables will keep you healthy and energized. 6. Stay active. At least 30 minutes of daily exercise can greatly reduce stress, help you maintain a healthy weight and improve your mood.7. Have fun! Take some time to do activities you enjoy. Maintaining your own identity is crucial and will help “recharge” your energy for better care for your loved one.8. Stay social. Make an effort to interact with people. Meet up—and laugh—with your friends.9. Find a caregiver support group. Being around others who are going through similar experiences provides an outlet for sharing ideas, venting frustrations and supporting each other through hardships.10. Take things one day at a time. The future is uncertain—not just for stroke survivors, but for everyone. Focus on the accomplishments of each day, and don’t get carried away with the “what ifs” of the future.