Note from the Community Manager: We are grateful to Gary Barg for sharing this inspiring manifesto with CareCommunity. He is the editor and chief of the online community caregiver.com.
I will fearlessly assess my personal strengths and weaknesses and work diligently to bolster my weaknesses and to graciously recognize my strengths.
I will fearlessly make my voice heard with regard to my loved one’s care and be a strong ally to those professional caregivers committed to caring for my loved one and a fearless shield against those not committed to caring for my loved one.
I will fearlessly not sign or approve anything I do not understand, and will steadfastly request the information I need until I am satisfied with the explanations.
I will fearlessly ensure that all the necessary documents are in place in order for my wishes and my loved one’s wishes to be met in case of a medical emergency. These will include Durable Medical Powers of Attorney, Wills, Trusts, and Living Wills.
I will fearlessly learn all I can about my loved one’s healthcare needs and become an integral member of his or her medical care team.
I will fearlessly seek out other caregivers or care organizations and join an appropriate support group. I realize that there is strength in numbers and will not isolate myself from those who are also caring for their loved ones.
I will fearlessly care for my physical and emotional health as well as I care for my loved one’s; I will recognize the signs of my own exhaustion and depression; and I will allow myself to take respite breaks and to care for myself on a regular basis.
I will fearlessly develop a support system of friends and family and remember that others also love my loved one and are willing to help if I let them know what they can do to support my caregiving.
I will fearlessly honor my loved one’s wishes, as I know them to be, unless those wishes endanger my loved one’s health or mine.
I will fearlessly acknowledge when providing appropriate care for my loved one becomes impossible, either because of his or her condition or my own, and seek other solutions for my loved one’s caregiving needs.
| Expert Author Bio |
 A noted speaker, writer, and publisher on caregiving issues since 1995, Gary Barg is founder and editor-in-chief of the first national magazine for caregivers, Today’s Caregiver. He is also editor-in-chief of the original online caregiver community, caregiver.com. His book, The Fearless Caregiver, is filled with practical advice, techniques, and inspirational stories to help caregivers best care for their loved ones and themselves. |