Understanding Caregiving

Anyone can find themselves thrust into the role of a caregiver overnight, often without warning. The challenges and stressors that caregivers face can be intense and sometimes misunderstood by those around them. If you know a loved one who is a caregiver or simply want to learn more about the caregiving journey, here are some insights from TOUCH Caregivers Support on caregiving and tips on how you can offer better support.  

STAGES OF CAREGIVING 
The caregiving journey is rarely linear, but rather a dynamic process with distinct stages that caregivers often experience. 

STRESSORS OF CAREGIVING  
Caregiving often comes with a unique set of stressors that can significantly impact caregivers’ well-being in the various aspects of life.    

Physical: Caregivers may experience physical strain or sustain injuries resulting from lifting, assisting with mobility, or performing demanding care tasks. Providing round-the-clock care can also lead to fatigue and neglect of one's own health.    

Financial: The financial burden can be substantial, often involving reduced income if the caregiver cuts back on work or leaves employment entirely. There's also the constant worry about how long savings will last and the ability to cover ongoing medical or household expenses.    

Social: Caregivers frequently experience feelings of loneliness. The demands of caregiving can limit opportunities for social interaction, leading to strained connections with friends and community.   

Relational: Managing care can be fraught with disagreements and conflicts among family members regarding care provision, financial contributions, or decision-making. These tensions can strain family relationships, adding another layer of emotional stress for the caregiver.   

PRACTICAL TIPS IN SUPPORTING YOUR CAREGIVER LOVED ONES 
Caregivers feel less alone with support from those closest to them. Here are some tips to help you offer better support to your loved ones who are caregivers.    

Hold the space and be present: When caregivers seek your support, simply being present can make a world of difference. Reassure them that you're there for them and that it's okay to release their emotions through crying and share what's on their mind.    

Show your appreciation for their sharing: It takes immense courage for caregivers to open up about their emotions and struggles. Respond by thanking and appreciating them for sharing. Acknowledge their resourcefulness and resilience as they continue to care for their loved ones.   

Choose your words wisely: When you're speaking with a caregiver, using empathetic phrases can make a big difference. Some examples may be ‘that sounds frustrating’, ‘wow, you must have been really upset’ etc. These phrases help to validate their feelings and show them that you're truly listening and connecting with their experience.   

Do not trivialise the matter: Avoid trivialising what they’re going through by comparing their experiences with others or sharing your opinions without considering their feelings. Instead, focus on listening empathetically and validating their unique experiences and challenges.    

Do not offer solutions too quickly: If they were to confide in you, don’t try to solve their problems by offering solutions too quickly. Instead, allow them space to process their emotions first. Offering solutions too soon can feel dismissive and might prevent them from fully expressing what they’re going through.    

Direct them to resources: If you notice they may be experiencing caregiver guilt, you could share some tips on managing it. Additionally, AIC came up with a caregiver stress checklist to help caregivers assess for burnout, along with practical advice for managing their well-being.   

While caregiving can be an arduous journey, support is available, and you don’t have to do this alone. For those with caregiver loved ones, reach out and show them you care! Whether you're presently a caregiver or might become one tomorrow, equipping yourself with the knowledge will always help.    

Have any questions on caregiving or want to find out more about caregiver-related support and services? Find out more here.    

TOUCH Caregivers Support (TCG) envisions a community in which caregivers, together with their loved ones, are empowered to live well. It aims to do this by caring for the carer, while building a care network around the family, to build confidence and strengthen support. By focusing on the individual’s strength and taking a family-centred approach, TCG will strive to improve care sustainability, enabling caregivers to enjoy a better quality of life. To help caregivers cope with the challenges of caregiving, TCG provides a range of care resources, including helplines, home modification schemes, caregiver training and online community support. As an advocate for caregivers, TCG also conducts talks and webinars, and shares insights on media platforms to empower and further support caregivers on their journey.