Handbook for Mortals : Helping Family and Loved Ones

Rest and renewal tips for caregivers

• Hire a sitter or an aide for occasional events or on a regular basis.
• Arrange for other family members or friends to provide care.
• Use a nursing home or assisted living facility for planned vacations of a week or more.
• Use a day hospital or adult day care.
• Get a family member or friend to take on some responsibility regularly, such as paying bills, taking your loved one for a daily walk, giving a bath and shampoo.
• Change your expectations for yourself: let the housework go more than you like, for example.
• Meditate or pray.
• Recognize that for some people, nursing homes or assisted living facilities are the best option.

• Decisionmaking for family and loved ones
• Being a caregiver -- what to expect
• How can a caregiver know if things are out of control?
• What to do when the caregiver is overwhelmed
• How to help caregivers
• How to find support groups
• Is there any good news about caregiving?

• Chapter 5: Getting the help you need

To learn more about the book "Handbook for Mortals" click here.