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Caring for the Caregiver
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Caregivers provide the ill, injured or disabled warrior with activities of daily living that they can no longer do for themselves.
Respite Care
Short-term care for a patient to provide rest and change for the primary care givers who have been caring for the patient at home and assisting with activities of daily living. Although this is usually the patient's family, it may be a friend who assists the member with their activities of daily living. Respite care services are provided exclusively to the active duty service member.
Qualifying for Respite Care
Active duty service members who have a serious injury that has resulted in or may result in a physical disability or an extraordinary physical or psychological condition qualify for the respite care benefit. In many cases, the condition may be so severe that the service member is left homebound.
Making Time for Yourself
- Find nice things you can do for yourself. Even just a few minutes can help.
- Be active. Light exercises such as walking, stretching or dancing can make you less tired.
- Find ways to connect with friends. Are there places you can meet others who are close to you? Can you chat or get support by phone or email?
- Give yourself time off. Ask friends or family members to pitch in. Take time to rest.
- Do something for yourself each day.
Join a Caregiver Support Group
In a support group for caregivers, you can talk things over with other caregivers. People may talk about their feelings and trade advice. Others may just want to listen. This could give you some ideas for coping. It may also help you know you aren't alone. |
