Accepting New Roles as a Caregiver

Accepting New Roles as a Caregiver

 

One of the challenges a caregiver has is helping a spouse, family member, or close friend do activities of daily living (ADLs). These activities can include:

  • Dressing
  • Bathing or showering
  • Toileting
  • Changing undergarments or Depends
  • Grooming
  • Feeding
  • Wiping a face after meals

 

ADLs can present many challenges to you as a caregiver

  • Tasks are often very personal and in close contact that may include forms of intimacy.
  • May involve taking care of body fluids that may not be something you are used to doing for others.
  • Can be very messy.
  • Can be stressful because of several issues.
    • The time required and the how difficult it may be to do a given activity.
    • How well your loved one can control their body doing a given activity.
    • Not feeling confident that you know how to do a given activity.

Your roles in doing ADLs for another may change your relationship with them in some ways. Some people feel uncomfortable with this aspect of caregiving. You may feel uneasy in doing ADLs and this is a normal feeling. The struggle does not mean that you love this person any less, or that you are a bad person to feel this way. Many caregivers have these thoughts and feelings, which is normal.

 

Ideas to help you with these challenges

  • Know that this is a normal part of being a caregiver.
  • Celebrate the small successes you have as a caregiver.
  • Talk to your therapist, social worker, family or friends about any ADLs you are not comfortable with. They may help you find new ways to do the tasks.
  • Think about ways to enjoy being with your loved one to help you meet the challenges of giving care.

 

© 2020 – April 28, 2020. The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.

This handout is for informational purposes only. Talk with your doctor or healthcare team if you have any questions about your care. For more health information call the Library for Health Information at 614-293-3707 or email: health-info@osu.edu.