The Difference Between Support and Help

In caregiving, “support” and “help” are often used interchangeably, but they serve different purposes.

Emotional support for caregivers provides the encouragement and empathy needed to navigate caregiving challenges, while practical help addresses the tangible tasks involved in caregiving. Both are essential for managing the caregiver burden and ensuring the well-being of family caregivers.

Acknowledging the Need for Help

Caregiving is a demanding responsibility, often requiring round-the-clock attention.

According to a survey conducted by the Caregiver Action Network, 65% of family caregivers do not receive consistent help from other family members. This imbalance can lead to caregiver burnout and overwhelming stress. Recognizing that caregiving is too big a task to undertake alone is the first step toward finding help for family caregivers.

Why Caregivers Struggle to Ask for Help

Many caregivers find it difficult to ask for help.

Feelings of guilt, perfectionism, and fear of burdening others often hold caregivers back. Some believe that no one else can perform caregiving tasks as well as they can. These emotional barriers contribute to the isolation many caregivers experience, intensifying the challenges of managing caregiving responsibilities.

Step 1: Creating a Task List

To get the help you need, start by creating a detailed caregiver task list.

Write down all caregiving tasks you handle daily, from cooking meals and managing medications to transportation and household chores. Categorize these tasks into groups such as personal care, financial management, and household maintenance. This caregiving task list will serve as the foundation for organizing caregiving responsibilities and identifying areas where help is needed.

Step 2: Prioritizing and Delegating Tasks

Once your caregiving task list is complete, review it to identify tasks you dislike or find particularly stressful.

Prioritize tasks based on their importance and time demands, and determine which ones can be delegated. Delegating caregiving tasks doesn’t diminish your role as a caregiver; instead, it ensures that essential responsibilities are met without overburdening you.

For example, a family member might assist with transportation or grocery shopping, while a professional caregiver can help with personal care tasks. By sharing caregiving responsibilities, you can focus on tasks that require your unique skills or provide personal fulfillment.

Step 3: Asking for Help with Your List

Armed with your caregiving task list, reach out to others for assistance. Sharing your organized list demonstrates your resourcefulness and clarity about your needs. Start by approaching family members, friends, or community caregiver support resources. Use the task list as a tool to explain your situation and make specific requests for help.

Finding Help When You Feel Isolated

If you don’t have immediate support from family or friends, consider alternative resources.

Local caregiver support groups, faith-based organizations, or employee assistance programs can connect you with people willing to help. Online forums and caregiving networks also provide emotional support and practical advice for caregivers feeling isolated.

Emotional Benefits of Sharing Your Needs

Asking for help not only reduces your caregiving workload but also alleviates feelings of isolation.

Sharing your caregiving challenges with others fosters connection and emotional support. This can reduce caregiving stress, enhance your well-being, and improve your ability to manage caregiving duties effectively.

Now… Take the First Step

Caregiving is a challenging journey, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Start by creating your caregiver task list, prioritizing responsibilities, and reaching out for help. Whether you find support from family, friends, or caregiving resources, taking action today will enhance your caregiving experience and improve the quality of life for both you and your loved one.