In the past year, around 65.7 million Americans were caregivers for an ill or disabled relative. Golden advice for caregivers is more in-demand than ever before, so let these pearls of wisdom shine a light on your situation.

About two thirds of family caregivers have full-time or part-time job positions. Although people often become caregivers out of love, you can’t ignore that it’s also unpaid labor.

If you’re not careful, caregiving can burn you out big time. You, too, deserve to have a fulfilling life like everyone else does and this advice will help you achieve that.

Here are some essential tips for caregivers that’ll help you out when you need it the most:

The Best Advice For Caregivers: Learn

As a family caregiver, it’s your responsibility to learn about your relative’s condition. Research their condition on the internet and listen to your relative whenever they tell you about their experiences with having it. 

If you can’t find out certain information on Google, connect with others who live with the same illness/disability on forums. Ask a health professional whenever possible because they give the best medical advice.

Organization is the Key

“Stay organized” is one of the most crucial caregiving tips in existence. It means the difference between seeing the doctor and missing an appointment.

Use alarms, calendars (including Google calendar), lists, and whiteboards to keep track of daily tasks. You should have a designated notebook for logging your caregiving activities, stats, appointment details, etc.

Stay Social

You don’t have to be a social butterfly, but avoid self-isolating at all costs. Isolation will only amplify any negative feelings you have, so set aside time for socializing. 

Make sure the person you’re caring for has a positive social outlet like church, bingo, support groups, etc. Socializing is linked to better health outcomes, especially in seniors, so help your elderly parent avoid isolation by reading this how to. 

Accept Help

Whenever your friends or family offer to help, accept their offer, and give them exact directions on what they can do to help you.

Research different resources online to discover what help for caregivers exists in your community. Call your local senior center, advocacy groups, and other helpful organizations for referrals to helpful services.

Practice Self-Care

Being a caregiver is draining, so practice extra self-care whenever possible. Take time to de-stress with pleasurable activities like reading, exercise, and more. 

When you’re feeling stressed, try journaling, meditation, or talking to friends. If you feel overwhelmed by negative feelings, see a social worker or counselor. 

For Those Who Dare To Care: We Salute You!

About 29% of Americans are caregivers, so caregivers comprise over a quarter of the population. Sharing this advice for caregivers can change someone’s life for the best, so why not spread the love?

Unpaid caregivers spend an average of 20 hours per week providing care. That’s the equivalent of an extra job position, which means people in your position need all the help they can get.

Invest in yourself—read more of our articles about health. Your body, mind, and soul will thank you for it tremendously.