Tips on Becoming a More Empathetic Caregiver (Updated)

How to be an Empathetic Caregiver

Family caregivers are called on to navigate a variety of roles. Sometimes they prepare meals and oversee medications. Other times they might assist with more clinically related tasks or even tend to personal needs, such as wound care, bathing or dressing. The demands of caregiving can add a lot of stress to a family member’s life. 

Caregivers often find themselves on an emotional roller coaster that can leave them wondering if they are not just meeting a loved one’s needs but also protecting their dignity and self-esteem. One way to manage these doubts and fears is to make sure you are treating the person you are caring for with empathy. While many of us are familiar with the term sympathy, fewer people are aware of what empathy is and how to apply it to the role of family caregiver. 

What is Empathy?

Let’s begin by talking about what empathy is. Researchers say empathy can be explained as the ability to sense other people’s emotions, coupled with the ability to imagine what someone else might be thinking or feeling. In other words, empathy means you are able to put yourself in someone else’s shoes, even if it’s just for a short time, so you can vicariously experience what they are going through. While your family member may not appreciate your feeling sorry for them, they will no doubt appreciate your willingness to try and relate to their situation. That’s the difference between sympathy and empathy. 

When caring for a senior loved one, empathy plays an important role. So, how can you ensure you are demonstrating empathy as you offer assistance and support to your loved one? We have some suggestions that we hope you will find helpful. 

Tips for Being a More Empathetic Caregiver 

  • Use your imagination: While it’s not always easy to do, our first tip is to imagine you are the one who is sick or in pain all the time. Because you aren’t able to care for yourself, you have little to no privacy. You have to rely on someone else to help you accomplish the simplest tasks. Picture yourself unable to do all the things you do for your family member.
  • If the person you are caring for is experiencing memory loss, that can be especially tough for both of you. Envision not being able to remember the names of commonly used objects or not recognizing your own family members. Chances are good that if you mentally put yourself in your loved one’s situation, you’ll be able to grasp why their mood or personality is the way it is. 
  • Keep a journal: Another suggestion is to keep a caregiver journal. Getting your observations, thoughts and fears down on paper can help you gain better insight and perspective. When you are in the heat of the moment, it’s tough to be objective. But if you document your caregiving journey every day or so, you’ll be able to look back and better understand the big picture. It may allow you to put yourself in your family member’s shoes. 
  • Take time for self-care: It’s difficult to be kind and gentle when you are stressed out and exhausted. For this reason, it’s important to take care of yourself. Utilizing meal services or home-delivered meals can help you eat healthier. Taking a 15-minute walk on a treadmill while your family member naps can help improve your energy. Remember, there is no shame in asking for help from others, whether it’s friends, family or professional caregivers. Consider exploring respite care services—it can give you the break you need to rest and restore your own well-being. 

We’re here to help you and your loved one. 

With communities throughout the state of Indiana, you’ll likely find an ASC location near you. We encourage you to call an ASC community near you today to speak with a team member about respite or another one of our senior care services! 

For more information about American Senior Communities, please visit www.asccare.com.

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