Jeff speaks with Nancy Loeffler of Being With Grief. Nancy provides advice on how to be supportive of those caring for a loved one who is sick or dying.
Do more than just offer help.
Come up with concrete ideas for what you can do for that person. People often think that they are able to handle anything and are reluctant to ask for help or are too overwhelmed to think about what they need. Some suggestions to ask or tell them…
- “I’m bringing a meal is chicken ok?” Better still, just bring it.
- “When is your next appointment so I can come over to watch the children when you need to go to a doctor’s appointment.”
- “Let me pick up your prescription.”
Caregivers need care, too.
Offer them your time so that they can take care of themselves. If the caregivers don’t take care of themselves, it becomes more difficult for them to take care of others. Watch their children or sick loved one so that they can get a massage, go out to eat, or just take a walk.
To learn more about coping with and supporting the caregiver role, please contact Nancy at Being With Grief: (919) 500-3848 or www.BeingWithGrief.com.