Caring for the Carer

Caring for the caregiver (1)
Source: The Word For Today
“Bear one another’s burdens.” Galatians 6:2
Millions of caregivers are at risk because of self-neglect.
Suzanne Mintz of the National Family Caregivers Association (US) has been taking care of her husband, who has multiple sclerosis, for years. Her breaking point came the day he fell.
“All I could do was drag him across the floor,” she said. “I’m five feet one; he’s five feet eight. It took 45 minutes…that’s when I knew this wasn’t a one-person job.”
The Bible says: “We who are strong ought to bear the weaknesses of those without strength” (Rom 15:1). Experts in caregiving offer this helpful advice:
Compromise: If you’re a relative, avoid family disputes. Don’t let old issues divide you; it’s time to stick together.
Coordinate: If you’re good with insurance and legal documents, offer your services. Help prepare a game plan for when an illness advances.
Encourage: Help the caregiver to find professional support. If they’re uncomfortable with in-person support groups, many organisations have online resources. Facilitate: Ask somebody objective, a pastor or social worker, to negotiate in stressful situations where the caregiver is struggling with the patient, family members, or medical providers.
Investigate: Locating books and websites and contacting organisations that help the caregiver learn more about a patient’s illness can save them time.
Listen: Asking the caregiver to tell you their story can provide a much-needed release and help you understand their needs.
Socialise: Organise events with family, community and church, and if possible include the patient.
By carrying somebody else’s burdens, even for a little while, you’re fulfilling “the law of Christ” (Gal 6:2 NKJV).
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