BEING A CAREGIVER

It's a big step to become a caregiver
For an elderly parent.  I figure it like
This:  they took care of you all your life--
It's only fair to repay that if you can, right?

Don't think that it will be easy and that
There won't be stress and problems.
Then again--life is that way too.  Unless
They require specialized care, you have them.

If they can stay in their own home where
Things are familiar, that's probably best.
Uprooting them, even to live with you, makes
Some feel like burdens and causes extra stress.

They will have to adjust that you are taking
Care of them and that they are no longer
The ones completely in charge.  You make sure they take
Their meds, and don't miss appointments with doctors.

Sometimes, they may get angry or fussy
Or complain till you want to scream.
Say a prayer, count to ten--and remember,
This isn't the life of which they dreamed.

Above all else:  NEVER ABUSE THE ONE
YOU CARE FOR!  Make sure they get three
Meals a day, a safe environment, and make
Sure they know you'll love them always.

Help them with their finances--DO NOT STEAL
From them.  Let them know when
They're upset, that you're there for them to help
Keep things straightened out, not bully them.

Make sure if they're supposed to use a
Cane or walker, that they do so to keep
Them from falling and injuring themselves.
Make sure they're never alone on concrete.

If Home Health comes to check on them and
Shows you a way to do something for their
¹Care, pay close attention.  You will have to
Fill in if Home Health can't be there.

Know the signs of a stroke and/or heart
Attack.   And get them to a hospital ASAP.
The same if they fall--don't move them,
Let EMS do it to avoid further injury.
3
It's not a job for a wimp.  You have to stay calm
And in control of yourself in an emergency.  You
Have to learn to have patience, even when you feel
Yours is all gone.  Make time for yourself too.

Always make sure they know you love them,
And will care for them as long as you can.
Let them see you learned what they taught you
Growing up.  And they're not burdens, you understand.