Ten Tips For Family Caregivers

• Choose to take charge of your life, and don't let your loved one's illness or disability always take center stage.

• Remember to be good to yourself.

• Love, honor and value yourself. You're doing a very hard job and you deserve some qualitytime, just for you.

• Watch out for signs of depression, and don't delay in getting professional help when you need it.

• When people offer to help, accept the offer and suggest specific things that they can do.

• Educate yourself about your loved one's condition. Information is empowering.

• There's a difference between caring and doing. Be open to technologies and ideas that promote your loved one's independence.

• Trust your instincts. Most of the time they'll lead you in the right direction.

• Grieve for your losses, and then allow yourself to dream new dreams.

• Stand up for your rights as a caregiver and a citizen.
  Seek support from other caregivers. There is great strength in knowing you are not alone.
  
  1998 National Family Caregivers Association