Try These Tips as You’re Transitioning Into the Role of Caregiver For Your Loved One

When your loved one starts showing signs of needing memory care assistance, you may be required to start filling an entirely new role of caregiver. And even if you’ve served as a caregiver for other people before, providing care to a loved one with memory challenges is likely to be a completely different experience.

As you’re transitioning to this new role, these tips from Copper Canyon Assisted Living and Memory Care in Tucson, Arizona, can help:

Start with love and empathy

When your loved one begins to show signs of memory challenges, it can be frustrating for you as the caregiver to see the changes they are experiencing. Even though emotions can be running high, try to actively empathize with your loved one and interact with them from a place of love. Try to look at things from your loved one’s perspective—how would you feel if you were in your loved one’s situation, experiencing the challenges they are experiencing? How would you want someone to interact with you?

As you’re navigating these new waters, you’re bound to make mistakes—you’re human, after all. But as long as you’re doing your best, learning as much as you can, and treating for your loved one with plenty of empathy and love, you will be a successful caregiver.

Define success based on your loved one’s needs

As your loved one faces these new challenges, be sure that your expectations of success are in line with their needs and abilities. As their caregiver, you may wish to see them enjoy life exactly as they did before, without any limitations or adjustments. But if that is your only idea of success, you may be setting yourself up for disappointment. Instead, redefine what success as a caregiver means based on your loved one’s needs rather than your own expectations.

Success as a caregiver means ensuring that your loved one is as comfortable, safe, and happy as possible. And it’s likely that each day will look different—some days will be better than others. But if you’ve done your best to focus on your loved one’s comfort, safety, and happiness, you can consider your day successful!

Understand your loved one’s condition thoroughly

As a caregiver, you will be taking on the responsibility of being in charge of your loved one’s medications, schedule, and safety, as well as other aspects of their life. To take charge successfully, you’ll need to thoroughly understand your loved one’s needs and their doctors’ recommendations for any medical conditions.

Be sure that you are familiar with any medications your loved one is taking, as well as their medication schedule. Ensure that you’re aware of any symptoms or conditions you should be monitoring, as well as any warning signs to watch out for. Finally, talk to your loved one’s doctor about how to regularly reassess and evaluate your loved one’s needs, and when to modify their care plan.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help

Being the sole caregiver for a loved one experiencing memory challenges can be a taxing job. If you need a break, some additional assistance, or for experienced professionals to take over your loved one’s care, it may be advantageous to find a memory care facility like Copper Canyon.

If you’re going out of town or simply need a break to care for yourself, the community offers short-term and respite stay options for your loved one. They’ll be able to enjoy the facility’s programs, amenities, and experienced staff, and you’ll have peace of mind that they are in good hands.

If your loved one’s needs have changed such that they would benefit from 24/7 professional care, Copper Canyon is ready to welcome them with open arms. The community provides specialized memory care programming to support your loved one’s needs, and you’ll be impressed with the comfortable rooms and luxury amenities.

To learn more about residency or to schedule a tour of Copper Canyon, contact our friendly team today.

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