How Can You Tell When to Say Yes and When to Say No as a Family Caregiver?

Homecare in Wyckoff NJ: Saying Yes Or No As A Senior Caregiver

The two simplest words can be “yes” and “no,” but they can get you into the most trouble as a caregiver.  If you’re saying yes when you really can’t, you’re painting yourself into a corner.  And if you’re saying no when you should be accepting, you’re tying your own hands.

Caregivers Have Some Tough Decisions

The bottom line is that when you’re a family caregiver, you’re faced with difficult decisions on a daily basis.  As much as you try, though, you can’t do everything on your own.  At some point, you’ll need to accept help from others and you’ll need to whittle down what you can actually commit to.

Saying “Yes” More Often

Some of the situations that you should be saying yes to more often could include when people offer you help, even if it’s vague future help.  Offers of help are an opportunity for you to stop in your tracks, find out what this person is willing to do and get a commitment on the books.  Turning away help from others because you don’t want to be a burden leaves you holding the bag all the time.

When to Consider Saying “No”

On the other hand, the word “no” can definitely be your friend as a family caregiver.  If you’re already over committed, you don’t need to say yes to every situation that comes your way.  Start becoming pickier about where your time and your energy go.  You can learn how to control those situations so that you’re only saying yes to the extra events and opportunities that fill you with joy and help you be a better caregiver.

The Key Is Balance in Your Own Caregiving Journey

What you’re ultimately looking for here is balance on your caregiving path. Being able to be a caregiver as well as all of the other titles that you wear in your life is important, but you can only do that if you’re paying excellent attention to where you’re spending your “yeses” and your “nos.”
Ultimately, you have to go with your gut more often as a family caregiver. Learn to trust your instincts and don’t worry about whether your every answer is right or perfect.

If you or a senior family member are considering homecare in Wyckoff, NJ, please contact the caring staff at Caring Solutions Home Care LLC.  In-home senior care servicing Bergen & Passaic Counties. Call today (973) 427-3553.