Care for the Caregiver
Dear Spouse and Caregiver,
Did you wake this morning thinking what does the day have planned for me? Medication given, food made, Blood pressure checked and planning the days activities. But what about you?
After eighteen months of attending so many medical appointments with Rick, I had my medical checkup. As I sat with my doctor, I realized how my health was impacted and neglected. Stress has a negative impact on your health, and I am living proof. At the end of the appointment, I needed to address having high blood pressure for the first time, elevated cholesterol, needing a test (endoscopy) for GI issues (later determined to be three ulcers). On top of all of that, there was a flood of tears when the doctor asked “How are you doing? Has this been a rough time?”
Alone in my car, I realized that my health had suffered and that if I continued, I would be of no value to myself, Rick, or my family. And I’m here to tell you: Don’t let YOU go. You are critical to the wellbeing of the stroke survivor, but more importantly, you are not only a spouse and a caregiver but someone of value who has much to offer the world.
Taking Care of your physical health
This has been an exhausting journey and time seems to fly by. The caregiver is busy with the care of the survivor that they forget that their health matters just as much or more. We need to stay healthy so we can provide the care needed.
Key preventative measures that impact your health are listed below. When speaking with your healthcare provider, ask for an individualized plan of care.
Are you up to date on the following preventative measures?
Medication - Are you taking medications as prescribed? Are you finding you are taking over the counter medications for symptoms versus seeing your MD?
Blood pressure - What is your current BP? Is it within the normal range? When was the last time this was checked?
Cholesterol - What is your cholesterol level?
Cancer Screenings - When was your last Mammogram or Colonoscopy?
Well Visit with your Medical Doctor, OB/GYN, eye doctor or dentist -schedule for the new year
Routine Vaccinations such as shingles, flu shot or Covid booster.
As caregivers and people, we need to have all three aspects of life working together, Physically, Mentally and Spiritually. At any given time, one aspect may be out of kilter, but overall, when all three are addressed, joy and peace ensue. Next week I will address the mental aspect of care for the caregiver.
Stroke and the Spouse – Season of Change Update:
The book is currently under review by a group of readers to determine if it flows, does it meet the goal to help others, what could be added and overall recommendations. Once I have that feedback, I will edit.
The goal is to have it available this summer.
Love from spouse to spouse