The holiday season is a time for gathering family and friends and looking forward to the excitement of giving and receiving gifts. Caregivers might feel held back in their excitement because the journey is 24/7, no matter the holiday season.
Caregiver Neglect
Caregiver neglect during the holidays is a reality( I know from personal experience). It comes from watching others celebrate and get excited about the season’s events, while the caregiver continues to manage the care of loved ones. Feeling overwhelmed and stressed by the limited support from family and friends can cause emotional strain. The results are delaying or omitting care to fit into the holiday spirit. For some reason, asking for help is forgotten, mainly because the perception is that they (family/friends) won’t stop what they are doing to help. It is really not the case (you have not because you asked not).
Set Realistic Expectations
It is still essential to set realistic expectations while finding ways to enjoy the season. Including loved ones in the holiday season festivities is important and a way to feel engaged. Consider the mental or health condition of loved ones first, then include them in holiday activities. Suggestions include helping with holiday cards, putting candy canes on the tree, or reading about the reason for the season. Helping them feel part of the holiday season will lift caregiver emotions. Avoiding isolation is key for both the caregiver and your loved one.
Signs of Potential Neglect
There are many ways holiday neglect can show up. Caregivers become emotionally exhausted. Next comes physical exhaustion, with feelings of not wanting to participate in the hands-on care of loved ones. Then, because of these events, irritation is displayed, followed by snapping at others, then feeling sad and anxious about these feelings and behaviors. Once a caregiver feels isolated, they begin withdrawing from their caregiving duties. Neglect happens.
Prevent Holiday Neglect Take-A-Ways
Caregivers must never forget their self-care. It may look different for every caregiver, but it must be a priority, especially during holiday seasons.
Asking for and accepting help(something we don’t do well), especially when we know it’s needed. The caregiver must learn to delegate. Family and friends are more willing to assist than we give them credit for.
Caregivers must communicate their needs. Mind-readers, we are not! I learned that the hard way! Being transparent about the challenges with family and friends can go a long way.
Memories during the holidays for the caregiver and loved ones should be cheerful and thoughtful.
As Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate, acknowledging the challenges of the caregiver role with others matters. Caregivers and loved ones should enjoy the holiday season. The caregiver journey can feel lonely, so how we manage our feelings and emotions can make the difference between a happy or a sad holiday. Neglect is a serious claim, often done without malice. Ensuring loved ones receive the care they need, preventing neglect is necessary. The holiday season is for all. Be Safe! Be Well!
Dr. Cynthia J. Hickman is a retired registered nurse and case manager who serves as the CEO of Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate. She’s excited to share her latest book, The Essential Caregiver Training Course for Corporations and Community. Her previous works, From the Lens of Daughter, Nurse, and Caregiver: A Journey of Duty and Honor, and The Black Book of Important Information for Caregivers, reflect her experiences and insights gained during her heartfelt caregiving journey.