5 tips on mastering the art of caregiving

Caring for someone who is recovering from a knee or hip replacement is rewarding, but it can also be challenging at times even though it is only for a short period. It is not uncommon to feel overwhelmed by the information available to you and the emotions you experience leading up to your caregiving role. There’s no doubt that you want to provide the best possible care and quality of life to a loved one, but you might feel torn about the steps you can take for both your own and their wellbeing.

Follow these five steps ahead of your loved one’s upcoming knee or hip replacement surgery to make the caregiving experience much smoother for yourself and for the person you are caring for.

Be prepared.
Gather as much information as possible about knee or hip replacement surgery and ask the surgeon what to expect during the recovery period, such as medication and support equipment requirements. Being prepared will help you feel more confident in your caregiving role.
Set boundaries for the amount of care you can reasonably provide.
Remember to consider your own commitments and the days and times that suit you. Establishing an agreement upfront will reduce any confusion and allow you to set time aside to spend at work or with your family and friends.
Develop a routine.
One of the best things you can do as a carer is to develop a routine. Knowing when to give medication to the patient, when to change bandages and when prescriptions need to be filled ahead of time will make the process much smoother.
Don’t be scared to talk about money.
Having an understanding of your loved one’s financial situation and health insurance will guide you in covering potential costs, rather than leaving you with a hefty bill.
Learn how to manage your stress and emotions.
Providing care to someone else can be an emotional journey for you both. The person you are caring for may become frustrated with their lack of independence or may rely on you heavily. The secret to better managing their emotions is to effectively manage yours. Take time for relaxation, deep breathing and endorphin-boosting exercise and speak to a professional if you experience any challenging emotions.