• Join a local or online support group. A support group can give you the chance to share information and connect with people who are going through similar experiences. A support group may help combat the isolation and fear you may experience as a caregiver.
• Don't limit your involvement to support groups and associations that focus on a particular need or disability. There are also local and national groups that provide services, recreation, and information for people with disabilities.
• Friends, family, health care providers, support groups, community services, and counselors are just a few of the people available to help you and your family.

Be Empowering:   Focus on what you and your family member with a disability   can   do.

• Find appropriate milestones and celebrate them.
• If someone asks you questions about the family member with a disability, let him or her answer when possible. Doing so may help empower the individual to engage with others.
• When appropriate, teach your family member with a disability to be as independent and self-assured as possible. Always keep health and safety issues in mind.

 Be an Advocate: for your family member with a disability. Caregivers who are effective advocates may be more successful at getting better service.

• Ask questions. For example, if your family member with a disability uses a wheelchair and you want to plan a beach vacation, find out if the beaches are accessible via a car, ramp, portable walkway mat, or other equipment.
• Inform other caregivers of any special conditions or circumstances. For example, if your family member with a disability has a latex allergy, remind dental or medical staff each time you visit them.
• Document the medical history of your family member with a disability, and keep this information current.
• Make sure your employer understands your circumstances and limitations. Discuss your ability to travel or to work weekends or evenings. Arrange for flexible scheduling when needed.
• Become familiar with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Family Medical Leave Act, and other state and national provisions. Know how and when to apply them to your situation.

Take Care of Yourself: Caring for a family member with a disability can wear out even the strongest caregiver. Stay healthy for yourself and those you care for.

• Work hard to maintain your personal interests, hobbies, and friendships. Don't let caregiving consume your entire life. This is not healthy for you or those you care for. Balance is key.
• Allow yourself not to be the perfect caregiver. Set reasonable expectations to lower stress and make you a more effective caregiver.
• Delegate some caregiving tasks to other reliable people.
• Take a break. Short breaks, like an evening walk or relaxing bath, are essential. Long breaks are nurturing. Arrange a retreat with friends or get away with a significant other when appropriate.

For a PDF Version of the helpful tips on this email click HERE