Our Ask An Angel correspondent is Arlene Petersen, Life Care Navigation Specialist in the area of senior home care.
Q. My wife suffered a stroke, and I am her caregiver. I hate to admit that I am emotionally spent, and I don’t have any relief in sight. What is available in my community for help?
A. When a loved one suffers a stroke, a new “normal” can set in. There are changes that are difficult to adjust to and often caregivers think they can do it all.
In time, they come to learn their patience level isn’t what they thought it would be. It is important to work with your doctor regarding physical aspects of your wife’s care, but it is also very important to care for yourself.
Surround yourself with a support system. Learn about local support groups. Sources for support groups include hospitals, assisted living communities, churches, and adult day care centers. Giving yourself emotional support will be one of the best things for yourself and your wife.
I also recommend that you educate yourself. Learn specifics about the type of stroke your wife has experienced. This will better equip you as you care for her. The American Heart Association offers a help line (1-888-4-STROKE) where experts can direct and support you.
Think about forming a team that you can rely on for help. This team can include family, neighbors, and friends from your local church or social groups you belong to. Finally, a professional caregiver can be a great way for you to get a bit of respite from your routine.
This is a very good way to recharge yourself. A professional caregiver can step in and offer services in the daily care routine for your wife. This will give you a break for the recharge you need.
Take baby steps to start building your “team.” The most important thing is that you begin to pour care into yourself, so you begin to feel relief. This will help you be the caregiver you wish to be.
•Have a question for our angel correspondent? You can send our angel an email to apetersen@visitingangels.com or send your question via mail to Ask An Angel, 65 Woodbury St., South Elgin, IL 60177.
