ARTICLES /
Caregiver / Considerations for Caregivers
Denial
If the person you are caring for continually
puts off medical diagnosis, they are using the
defense of denial in the service of their fear.
If they are never diagnosed, then they never
have to face the reality of being sick.
For Senior Men
More often than not, senior men went along with
the social arrangements made by their wives. If
a man becomes a widower, he may feel out of
place socializing with others on his own.
Additionally, since women outnumber men of this
age group, a man may feel he is betraying the
memory of his wife when engaging in social
situations involving mostly women.
Religion and Spirituality
It is important to understand what a person’s
religious or spiritual beliefs are. Does he or
she believe in an afterlife? Are they concerned
over what is in store for them when their mortal
life ends? Are they disillusioned or angry
with God?
Restore and Maintain Balance
It is essential for you, as a caregiver, to
leave time for your own introspection and
emotional balance. Engage in activities that
serve to cleanse toxins and stress from the body
and spirit.
Engage the help of others when necessary to
de-stress and achieve perspective.
Rest and relaxation are critical in order to
prevent “caregiver burnout.”
"Arthur N. Gottlieb, MSW,
CSA is a social worker in Connecticut working
with seniors and their families.
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