by Blair Worthington

Created on: October 28, 2009

Being a caregiver can be a lonely role that often people don't anticipate themselves being put into. For some, it may be a role that one takes on willingly. For others, it may be a role thrust upon them because there are no other alternatives available. Indeed, a care taking role can be one of the most challenging, and loving jobs that anyone could do for a family member or friend. Unfortunately, it is a job inherent with its own risks, namely caregiver burnout. In order to be an effective caregiver, it is necessary to make sure that the caregiver is also getting her needs met. Time away from the home, appropriate rest and exercise, and social interaction with others who are not sick will provide brief opportunities of respite for the caregiver. These brief moments away may help recharge the caregiver's batteries so to speak, and provide a sense of renewal. This type of renewal is important as the person begins to tackle the many, often exhausting tasks that must be performed each day as a caregiver.

Think about flying as a passenger on an airplane. We've all heard the common preflight announcements that the flight attendants make about buckling seat belts and locating the nearest exit near your seat. What does the flight attendant have to say about the oxygen masks? In the event of an emergency, it is important to secure your own mask first. Then secure the mask of your child. This is a good image to keep in mind as we consider caring for the caregiver. For in order for the sick person to be cared for appropriately, the caregiver must be in the strongest health possible. Anyone that has actually been a caretaker is fully aware of how difficult the simple task of taking care of oneself can be.

Provide Support

As someone who assisted a caregiver in a very close capacity, I had the opportunity to be present daily to support a caregiver's needs. Whether it was doing laundry, helping prepare meals, running errands or changing the sheets on the bed, offering support such as this to a caregiver is an important way to prevent caregiver burnout. Many times, providing a listening ear is also helpful and much needed. Many emotional and physical challenges are faced when someone is at home being cared for, or facing end of life issues. If that person has limited mobility, the challenges can be increased.

As my grandfather came home for hospice care, my grandmother became his primary caregiver. Like many caregivers, she was elderly (86 years old), and needed help with

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