Communicate Your Love and Respect this February

The relationships that you have with your caregivers are important ones. The family members who provide your care offer a truly generous gift. They ensure that you’re well-positioned to maintain a healthy, happy situation. But being reliant on other people’s help isn’t always easy.

Take good care of the relationship you have with your caregivers, even during those difficult moments, by fostering respectful, purposeful communication. Use these tips to ensure that you’re communicating what you intend to, without sending the wrong message.

Your Caregiver is On Your Side

Without a doubt, not feeling your best can lead to some challenging moments. During these difficult instances, try to remind yourself that your caregiver is there to help you cope with the physical and emotional discomfort that you’re experiencing. Your caregiver is on your side, and his or her efforts position you to thrive - right where you want to be - in your own home.

It’s certainly understandable to feel frustrated when you’re not feeling well, but aim to manage that feeling so that it doesn’t impact your communication with your caregiver. It’s seldom worth it to lash out at someone else when we’re struggling. We often end up feeling sorry and regretful. Consider making it part of your communication strategy to refrain from going down that road.

If you notice yourself getting frustrated, take a deep breath and disrupt that thinking. Say to yourself: “I don’t want to make the mistake of saying something unkind to my caregiver because I don’t feel well.” Make mental communication rules, so that even during difficult times, you know that you will still treat this important relationship and this important person with the care and respect that he or she deserves.

Manners Always

It can be hard to allow ourselves to be taken care of. It can feel humbling to submit to someone’s else’s care. Despite that emotional complexity, you need your relationship with your caregivers. You set yourself up for success when you stick to the basics that make relationships operate smoothly and harmoniously.

We all appreciate being spoken to with good manners. You deserve that from your caregivers, just as they deserve to that get that treatment from you. Consider making “manner always” a cornerstone of your personal policy.

Honesty Earns Intimacy

If you’re sad, say you’re sad. If you’re frustrated, say that. It’s a good strategy to own and express your emotions. It brings someone else into your emotional space. Invite your caregiver in for those conversations. Being honest about your feelings helps your caregiver to understand where you’re coming from, and to get a deeper sense of how to care for your needs.

It’s easier to manage our feelings when we understand them. By allowing yourself to be honest about your feelings, you also allow yourself to work through them with your caregiver. This can be helpful to those on both sides on the equation.

Tap in a Pro

Visiting Angels Caregivers are professionals who truly have a heart for caring for seniors. Inviting their expertise and assistance can help offer family caregivers some needed support and assistance. They can also offer family caregivers the opportunity to take a day or a weekend to refresh and recharge through the Visiting Angels Respite Care Program. It’s the perfect way to give family caregivers some time for self-care.

Remember

Your caregivers are there to help. They are ready to offer their assistance, support and companionship. Accept the invitation. Invite their assistance. Then make simple rules to ensure good communication. Doing so sets you and your caregivers up for a happy and productive relationship.