How Can You Help a Family Caregiver?

Help for family caregivers from friends, neighbors, and the community is very important. Many people are very willing to help caregivers, but oftentimes are not sure how. Or, caregivers tell them they do not need help when they really do. It is common for caregivers to say they are uncomfortable asking for help from other family, friends, or neighbors– but are willing to accept it when it "shows up." Here are some ideas on how to help a family caregiver.

• Be persistent. Empathize with their situation.
• Let them know you do not mind and want to help. It is no bother for you; you are glad to do it. Do not tell them to call if you they need anything – they usually won’t.
• Tell them or give them a list of specific things you can help with.
• Tell them when you are available to help. Give them your schedule.

Ways To Help Family Caregivers

Give On-going Emotional Support

• Routinely call and talk to the caregiver; ask how they are doing – not just the care receiver. Leave messages when the caregiver is not home; they will appreciate the messages.
• Give them encouragement on the job they are doing.
• Stay connected to the caregiver by sending cards, notes, flowers or a plant, or dropping by for short visits.
• Socialize with the caregiver and try to get them out of the house.
• Remember the family on holidays and special days.
• Give a gift certificate to something you know they’ll enjoy (movie, new book, massage).

Help With Household Chores & Errands

• Offer to do grocery shopping and errands when you are doing these for yourself.
• Show up or organize a group to do yard work (including spring and fall clean-up) and routine lawn mowing or gardening; snow removal; outside home repairs, painting, etc.
• Help with laundry; or give them a gift certificate for a laundry service.
• Show up with a meal or treat, or ride.
• Watch the house if the family member is hospitalized or living elsewhere temporarily
• Put the garbage out each week.
• If you have special skills (e.g. plumber, electrician, gardener, etc.) offer your talents

Give Them Breaks — Time Away

• Spend time with the care receiver (visits, out for a drive or coffee, reading, etc.) so the caregiver can get out or spend time alone at home.
• Offer to check and/or help the family member when the caregiver is unavailable.

Miscellaneous

• If you are a professional (legal, accounting, medical, nursing, social worker, rehab therapist, pharmacist, etc.) offer assistance in your field and be specific on the help you can provide.