They are people who wake up every day and do the work. Sometimes they do it so well, so dependably and so quietly, we almost forget they are there.
“They” are primary family caregivers.
Primary family caregivers are often undemanding, patient, dependable people who frequently put others ahead of themselves. Because they are so dependable, we sometimes forget just how hard they work and therefore fail to show our appreciation to them.
So, how do you best thank and honor caregivers?
Ways to Thank and Honor Caregivers
1. Simply say “thank you.” It seems obvious, but most of us don’t say it often enough! Expressing our gratitude requires reminding ourselves of the work caregivers do, as well as the price they incur for doing it. Perhaps a visit to the loved one’s home to observe the caregiver going through their routine would remind you to let them know you appreciate them.
2. Offer your help. A day – or even an hour – of you staying in the senior’s home would be a physical and mental relief for the family caregiver, as well as a way of getting firsthand experience in what they do every day. In addition, you could periodically perform tasks like doing the laundry, cleaning the house, mowing the lawn or taking the senior family member to the doctor’s office. If you are not able to perform a task, consider paying for the service to be provided by someone else.
3. Offer to help the caregiver with his or her family. Often primary family caregivers are in the “sandwich generation” – they are taking care of a senior parent but also have a spouse and children at home. You can offer to pick up a child from soccer practice or take dinner to the parents’ home, thereby making it a little easier for everyone.
4. Write a card, letter, email or text. Express your gratitude to let them know you recognize their efforts.
5. Spend some quality time with the caregiver. Maybe they need to talk about the challenges, concerns, and anxieties they feel. This gift is one of awareness – taking the time to listen. You don’t have to have the answers. Or you could bring along a movie and a bottle of wine and just let them relax for a couple of hours.
6. Encourage other family members to express their appreciation for the primary family caregiver. Perhaps the family can buy a gift card for the caregiver, or become more involved in assisting him or her on a regular basis.
Isolation and Loneliness Among Caregivers
In many cases, family caregivers have altered their previous routines to focus on the needs of their senior loved one, while everyone else in their life seems to be carrying on as normal. Without support or contact from others, they may begin to feel like no one understands or cares about them. This can have physical as well as emotional effects – including weight gain, increased blood pressure, higher risk of stroke, and depression.
Studies show that family caregivers who feel appreciated experience better physical and emotional health. Even if your primary family caregiver seems reluctant to receive expressions of appreciation and recognition, she or he deserves and needs them. So honor the caregivers in your life today!
