What is care-giving? The term "care-giver" is used for anyone who provides care for a loved one or relative, while that person has been injured, has been diagnosed with a disease, or has a terminal illness. Many spouses find themselves thrust into the position of care-giver when their partner becomes ill, as do many adult children of seniors. It can be a life-altering change for both parties, sometimes negative, sometimes positive. As a care-giver, you may be now responsible for helping your loved one bathe, get to doctor's appointments on time, and ensure medications are taken on schedule. You may now be running a household completely on your own—and trying to help your patient maintain dignity.

Adjusting to a New Role. Even if you have a background in one of the “caring professions,” caring for someone you know intimately is different. You still may not be prepared for the job of 24-hour-a-day care-giving to someone with whom you are intimately connected. It may take a while for both parties to adjust. That’s perfectly “normal,” since your life has probably been turned “up-side down” by these new roles.

Accept Help. To help you handle care-giving, the first rule is to accept help when it’s offered. If friends, neighbors, or relatives volunteer to cook meals, mow the lawn, or shop, accept their offers! Many people who care about you will understand the strain you’re under, and want to help. If you have any type of senior help centers in your area, and your loved one fits the criteria for being approved for services, sign up for whatever assistance they offer. Many states have programs that provide free companion services, where someone (who has had the appropriate background checks, screening, etc.), will sit with your loved one while you go to the grocery store, run errands, or have a break and concentrate on your own needs for a time.

Remembering to Care for Yourself. Make sure you take time for yourself, to prevent “burn-out” or resentment. Being a care-giver can be exhausting, not just physically, but emotionally. It can easily become overwhelming to be solely in charge of everything. Although it may seem nearly impossible at times, try to take at least a few minutes each day just for yourself. Soak in a bath, sit on your porch, take a little walk—anything that will let you change your focus and recharge you.