Your loved one can no longer do the many tasks they once could. They now depend on you for many of these things. The easiest solution may be to simply take over and make decision, but it’s important to be respectful of your loved ones. As a caregiver, you want to protect your loved one’s dignity and sense of self-worth. Put yourself in their shoes. Imagine if your independence had slipped away. You can no longer drive, walk, or get out of bed. These once simple tasks now require help from someone else. How would this make you feel? You may feel frustrated. This loss of freedom would most likely cause you to want to keep control over as much as you possibly could. Here are some helpful suggestions:

• Put yourself in your loved one’s place. How would you want to be treated if you were being cared for?
• Educate yourself on your loved one’s condition. This can prepare you for what’s ahead.
• Help them do what they can on their own for as long as possible. This will give them a sense of control.
• Talk openly and honestly with your loved one. Try to involve them in decisions and be a good listener.
• Be flexible. Try an accommodate reasonable requests if you can.
• Give positive feedback if your loved one does a task on their own.