Caregiver’s Guide

Caregiving may be stressful. A caregiver’s job is not easy, but it does not always have to be a burden. If you are thinking about being a caregiver or when you are a caregiver, you will need to know the following things.

• The kind of care the person needs. This includes medical care, custodial care, home care, etc. Find this out from the person and from his or her doctor, health care team, family, and friends.
• How the person’s health care and living care expenses will be paid. Find out what assets and health insurance the person has and if these will cover the costs of his or her care.
• What support services are available. Call Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 or visit eldercare.acl.gov.
• VA offers a number of services, as well as support for caregivers of Veterans. Services include:
  • Everyday tips and checklists
  • Caregiver Toolbox
  • Caregiver support programs
  • Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers
• If there are any caregivers’ support groups that you can join.
• Good books about caregiving that you can read.
• How to get respite care for the person. Locate persons and/or places that provide this in your area.
• How much you can truly handle on your own and when the person you are caring for needs residential care.
• Take care of your own health and needs, too. Eat well. Exercise regularly. Get enough sleep. Get regular health exams and tests. Find ways to relax and relieve stress. Tell your doctor you are a caregiver. Follow their advice to take care of your health needs.