Letter to the caregiver

THE incidence of disability in Zimbabwe is on the rise. Many disabilities lead to people being dependent on other people for help with activities of daily living. We call these people caregivers. Anyone can be a caregiver, for example when a parent strokes in the family even the children can help with caring for him/her and assisting with activities of daily living.

Disability puts a burden on families and worse still on caregivers — the person/people that get to spend the entire day assisting the patient with all the activities of that day. Caring for someone has never been an easy job, its often an emotional journey because as a caregiver, you are often forgotten and not cared for yourself.

Caring for a loved one strains even the most resilient people. If you’re a caregiver, take steps to preserve your own health and well-being.

In Zimbabwe, we have many caregivers who aren’t healthcare professionals, usually they are the elder family relatives.

Caregiving can have many rewards. Being able to care for a loved one is a core value and something you wish to provide. But a shift in roles and emotions is almost certain.

It is natural to feel angry, frustrated, exhausted, alone or sad. Unfortunately, it goes without saying that people who experience caregiver stress can be vulnerable to changes in their own health. Risk factors for caregiver stress include: Being female Having fewer years of formal education Living with the person you are caring for Social isolation Having depression Financial difficulties Higher number of hours caregiving

Lack of coping skills and difficulty solving problems

Lack of choice in being a caregiver Signs of caregiver stress: Too much stress, especially over a long time, can harm your health. As a caregiver you are most likely to experience symptoms of depression or anxiety. Again, you may not get enough sleep or physical activity, or eat a balanced diet — which increase your risk of medical problems, such as heart disease and diabetes. Feeling overwhelmed or constantly worried Feeling tired most of the time Sleeping too much or too little Gaining or losing a lot of weight Becoming easily irritated or angry Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy Feeling sad Having frequent headaches, bodily pain or other physical problems

Abuse of alcohol or drugs, including prescription medications.

Coping strategies for stress management for Caregivers

The emotional and physical demands involved with caregiving can strain even the most resilient person. That’s why it’s so important to take advantage of the many resources and tools available to help you provide care for your loved one. Remember, if you don’t take care of yourself, you won’t be able to care for anyone else. To help manage caregiver stress:

Accept help. Be prepared with a list of ways that others can help you, and let the helper choose what he or she would like to do. For instance, one person might be willing to take the person you care for on a walk a couple of times a week. Someone else might offer to pick up groceries or cook for you.

Focus on what you are able to provide. It’s normal to feel guilty sometimes, but understand that no one is a “perfect” caregiver. Believe that you are doing the best you can and making the best decisions you can at any given time.

Set realistic goals. Break large tasks into smaller steps that you can do one at a time. Prioritise, make lists and establish a daily routine. Begin to say no to requests that are draining, such as hosting holiday meals.

Get connected. Find out about caregiving resources in your community. Many communities have classes specifically about the disease your loved one is facing. Caregiving services such as transportation and meal delivery may be available.

Join a support group. A support group can provide validation and encouragement, as well as problemsolving strategies for difficult situations. People in support groups understand what you may be going through. A support group can also be a good place to create meaningful friendships.

Seek social support. Make an effort to stay wellconnected with family and friends who can offer non-judgmental emotional support. Set aside time each week for connecting, even if it’s just a walk with a friend.

Set personal health goals. For example, set a goal to establish a good sleep routine or to find time to be physically active on most days of the week. It’s also crucial to fuel your body with healthy foods and plenty of water.

See your doctor. Get recommended immunisations and screenings. Make sure to tell your doctor that you’re a caregiver. Don’t hesitate to mention any concerns or symptoms you have.

Do not feel alone, someone out here cares for you too.

“Take care of your busy body, you owe that to your family.”