Here are some tips for caregivers that can be useful and help ease the burden somewhat in meeting everyone's needs

1. First and foremost take care of yourself. A healthy diet, rest and exercise are important in maintaining your health. See your physician regularly and schedule a screening for depression and stress. Allow yourself to accept help from others. Everyone benefits from a healthy caregiver.
   
2. Talking with others is very beneficial. Area Agency on Aging can putyou in touch with a local support group. Sharing concerns, problems and solutions with others who are going through the same experience can alleviate some of the stress that you may be feeling. Having a close friend that you can talk to can also be very helpful.
   
3. Be informed and get training in caring for your loved one. Find out as much as you can about your loved one's condition and what you can expect as time goes on. The Area Agency on Aging has classes on the basic techniques and ways of caring for an elderly loved one. Knowing what to expect will relieve some of the anxiety and stress that goes along with being a caregiver.
   
4. If possible, be flexible. Sometimes responsibilities of being a caregiver conflict with those of your employment. Talk with your employer about rearranging your schedule to allow time for your caregiving responsibilities and if there are some activities and duties that can be halted or delegated, do so.
   
5. Making your home safe is very important in the care of your loved one.Adjust the hot water heater to avoid burns. Remove clutter and loose rugs from pathways. Provide adequate lighting and keep matches, lighters and cigarettes in a controlled environment. Install grab bars in the bathroom and non-skid rugs.
   
6. Area Agency on Aging has some in-home care options that your loved one might be eligible to receive. Contact your local agency and find out about home delivered meals, transportation availability, personal emergency response system and other home care services. The agency can also provide help with daily needs such as bathing, dressing, feeding, toileting and even some light housekeeping.
   
7. There are some out of home options that are available such as adult day care services. Area Agency on Aging can explain these options to you.
   
8. Everyone needs a break from the responsibilities of caregiving. Enlist the aid of other family members, friends and neighbors. Arrange for someone to come in and take over for a few hours, a few days or even a few weeks. Ask the Area Agency about its respite program.
   

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