Caring For Caregivers: Seeking Solutions 2

Posted: 5/15/2017 1:33 PM by Interim HealthCare

Seeking solutions to difficult situations is, of course, one of the most important tools in caregiving. Once you've identified a problem, taking action to solve it can change the situation and also change your attitude to a more positive one, giving you more confidence in your abilities.

Steps for Seeking Solutions

Identify the problem. Look at the situation with an open mind. The real problem might not be what first comes to mind. For example, you think that the problem is simply that you are tired all the time, when the more basic difficulty is your belief that "no one can care for John like I can." The problem? Thinking that you have to do everything yourself.

List possible solutions. One idea is to try a different perspective: "Even though someone else provides help to John in a different way than I do, it can be just as good." Ask a friend to help. Call and ask about agencies in your area that could help provide care and respite services.

Select one solution from the list. Then try it!

Evaluate the results. Ask yourself how well your choice worked.

Try a second solution. If your first idea didn't work, select another. But don't give up on the first; sometimes an idea just needs fine tuning.

Use other resources. Ask friends, family members and professionals for suggestions.

If nothing seems to help, accept that the problem may not be solvable now. You can revisit it at another time. You don’t have to solve everything today!

Note: All too often, we jump from step one to step seven and then feel defeated and stuck. Concentrate on keeping an open mind while listing and experimenting with possible solutions.

Be open to contributions from unexpected sources. People may want to be helpful, but don’t know what to say or do. Make it easy for them to help you.

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