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Navigating the Caregiver Journey: Your Guide to Caring with Confidence

Happy senior woman with her adult daughter at home

So, you're taking care of someone you love. Maybe it happened slowly, or maybe it surprised you. Either way, you're not alone. Millions of people are caregivers, and while it's not easy, it can be very rewarding.

Start Simple

There's no perfect time to become a caregiver. Take it one day at a time. Start by having honest talks with your loved one. Ask them what they want and need. Talk about their health, money, and daily life. These conversations might feel awkward, but they're important. Having them now will make things easier later.

Get Help - Form A Caregiving Team

Being a caregiver is hard work. You don't have to do it alone. Ask family and friends for help. Make a list of people who can assist you. Maybe your loved one's neighbor can pick up groceries. Maybe your sister can visit on weekends. Don't be afraid to ask for what you need.

Many caregivers feel very stressed juggling the needs of their family, possibly work and their care recipient. That's normal. The key is getting support before you burn out.

Take Care of Yourself

Here's something important: you matter too. Taking care of yourself isn't selfish - it's necessary. Anyone who has ever flown has heard the expression, put on your mask before helping others. You can't help others if you're exhausted or sick.

Self-care can be simple. Take a short walk. Call a friend. Take deep breaths. Say no to things that stress you out. Even 10 minutes of "me time" can help. Remember, you're doing important work, and you deserve care too.

Find Your People and Resources

One of the best things you can do is connect with other caregivers. They understand what you're going through. They know why you might cry at the store or feel happy about small wins. Look for caregiver support groups in your area or join AARP's Caregiver Facebook Group. These groups share helpful tips and real advice. Plus, you'll learn you're not the only one figuring things out as you go.

Caregivers themselves need support to prevent them from burning out. AARP Family Caregiver Resources for New Jersey and the NJ Disability Information Hub provides details about programs that help educate caregivers of care recipients of all abilities, give them breaks from providing care, and connect them with other caregivers to provide mutual support.

Learn as You Go

Nobody becomes a perfect caregiver overnight. It's okay to feel confused or make mistakes. Every caregiver started as a beginner. There are lots of resources to help you learn. From safety tips to money advice, help is available when you need it. Don't be afraid to ask questions or look for answers. AARP's website, Your Questions Answered, answers many of your caregiving questions. You can even ask specific questions where you'll get an answer from a caregiving subject matter expert in several business days.

Remember Why It Matters

Yes, caregiving is one of the hardest jobs you'll ever have. But it's also one of the most meaningful. There will be tough days, but there will also be good moments. You'll feel proud knowing you're helping someone you care about. You're making a real difference in someone's life every single day.

Most importantly, be patient with yourself. You're doing something amazing, even when it doesn't feel like it. Every day you show up for your loved one matters. Take it one step at a time and remember - you've got this.

What's Next?

If you're ready to learn more about caregiving, visit the AARP Caregiving website. Download our caregiving guides in English, Spanish or Chinese. The guides are even tailored to meet the needs of Asian-American, Veteran or the LGBTQ+ communities. You can find more information at AARP Care Guides Take the Stress out of Family Caregiving.


Your caregiving journey is unique. There's no perfect way to be a caregiver. Your way is enough.

 

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