Find trusted sources of help
Summary Family caregivers frequently need to reach out for help, whether in the form of information, guidance, or support. This article explains some ways to assess whether a source of help can be trusted or not. It then lists and describes some major reliable sources of in-person and online help for caregivers. Assessing sources of […]
Deal with caregiver depression
Summary It is common for caregivers to experience symptoms of depression, which range from feeling sad to feeling unable to carry on. This article lists common signs of caregiver depression, some differences between symptoms of depression and burnout, some causes of depression, and some typical treatments recommended by doctors. Symptoms of caregiver depression It is […]
Normal memory loss versus dementia
Summary Memory loss is a normal part of aging. If a loved one can’t remember where they left their keys, the password for a website, or the name of a former classmate, it does not necessarily mean there is a problem. As long as there is no underlying medical condition, memory lapses such as these […]
Provide care while ensuring dignity
Summary Helping a person receiving care keep their personal dignity is one of the most important parts of being a caregiver. This article offers useful ways for the caregiver to make sure that they are treating the older person receiving care with respect and allowing them to keep as much dignity as possible within the […]
Minimize family confusion, disagreements, and frustration
Summary The stresses of caregiving can lead to confusion, disagreement, and frustration among the caregiving group (usually the spouse and family members). This article briefly explains why these issues can arise, and then offers some ways to solve or minimize them. Family conflict in caregiving The stresses of caregiving can lead to confusion, disagreement, and […]
Deal with caregiver burnout
Summary Many caregivers suffer from burnout, a state of physical and mental exhaustion caused by being under too much stress for too long. This article describes some of the most common symptoms of burnout. It then explains causes of burnout and ways to prevent or manage it. Symptoms of burnout Many caregivers suffer from burnout, […]
Coordinate appointments, care, and follow up
Summary Coordinating a loved one’s appointments, care, and follow-up can be a bewildering task. This article offers several effective ways to optimize care coordination, including using features of the Maia Care app. Coordinating care Coordinating a loved one’s appointments, care, and follow-up can be a bewildering task. Even someone who is relatively healthy can have […]
Take care of yourself emotionally
Summary It is immensely important for caregivers to take care of their emotional health. This article explains why and then describes five effective ways for caregivers to practice emotional self-care. The importance of emotional self-care It is immensely important for caregivers to take care of their emotional health. Caregiving comes with many built-in emotional stresses […]
Manage resistance to care
Summary Caregivers commonly run into resistance (caregiver resistance) from the person receiving care. This article offers several strategies for managing and lowering resistance, including being respectful, understanding the reasons for the resistance, and matching the solution with the problem. Resistance to care Caregivers commonly run into resistance from the person receiving care. Some seniors resist […]
Balance care responsibilities
Summary Balancing caregiving responsibilities with other aspects of life and (in many cases) work is one of the most difficult things about being a caregiver. This article offers some steps for achieving this balance. The importance of caregiving-life balance Balancing caregiving responsibilities with other aspects of life and (in many cases) work is one of […]