Holidays often mean adult children will be around. Maybe not so much this year, but perhaps. Children often show up with opinions and thoughts. Best to plan for this.

Well meaning family members will be on the lookout for many things which can be helpful. They often have good intentions. They may not know the daily challenges you deal with 24/7.

Things to be on the lookout (for you as well as what your kids may see) include:

Is the ill family member keeping up on their hygiene and or getting those needs tended to?

Who is monitoring the meds including daily dosing and refills?

Is someone paying attention to the mail and keeping up on the bills? Look for piles of unopened mail.

Check the expiration date of foods in the refrigerator, who is tending to the meals?

This is often a time where you can ask for help. Family members don’t always know how to offer help and caregivers sometimes don’t know how to accept.

We often think we need to do it all. That does not work. You can choose to do it all if that works for you. If family wants to help, I encourage you to at least be open to the possibility even if it is something small.

As caregivers we often think we can/need to do it all. This often ends up hurting us. You probably know the stats that caregivers often develop at least two medical conditions while in the role of caregiver — often because they are putting off their own needs.

Remember if you are not functioning, you will not be able to take care of your loved one.

I see you; I care about you. I am here to help. Call/text for a free 20 min coaching session, so I can teach you how to enjoy your life again and stop the resentment that often comes with caregiving. (303) 907-6795