A Message to Care Partners
When our loved one’s experience a life changing diagnosis or health changes, what comes next can vary for everyone in many different ways. There is the anxiousness and worry about what changes are normal and what changes are not. The roles we have for our loved ones can change from being a spouse, sibling, or child and becomes that of a care partner as an additional role.
One of the issues faced with many newer care partners is learning how to navigate their new role as a care partner. As a care partner we may be tasked with learning new medical diagnosis, medications, treatment schedules and changes in daily needs. Don’t try to memorize everything, having a system set up whether it be an online application on the phone or computer or using a calendar or scheduler book can greatly help keep track of things. It may take some trial and error to find out what works best for you, but once you find it, organizing and notetaking can become easier to do.
Additionally, finding local, regional, and national organizations are also vital for finding the guidance one needs. Referring to a credible source for information can really help avoid misinformation or address any misconceptions. Often times, organizations will have experts or specialist provide seminars or support groups. This can greatly help you find credible information and support from other individuals who are experiencing something similar to you.
Finding information and applying it to your situation can be challenging. You are learning how to navigate your role as a care partner for your loved one, but also for yourself as your own routine and needs change. Little by little make the adjustments on things that may be troubling or difficult to do. Additionally, being a care partner does not have to be isolating, asking for help, seeking help, and finding support is an important part of being a care partner. The journey of being a care partner can be challenging but also rewarding. Please be kind and supportive of yourself as well while also caring for your loved one.
