Support for Caregivers

The Caregiving Trap: Solutions for Life's unexpected Changes, By Pamela D. Wilson

Personal Safety Nets: Getting Ready for Life's Inevitable Changes and Challenges, By John W. Gibson and Judy Pigott. 

 "For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love you have shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do." (Eph. 5:8).

When you become a caregiver you become a giver of light and a source of comfort to those whom you care, and you become as Christ to those you serve. Caregivers come from many different states in life and the needs and challenges families face are multiple and varied. Whlle, being a caregiver may summon your highest ideals and best intentions, this role is not without its challenges. Caregiver relationships can be complicated. Often families and caregivers want to provide the very best care for their loved one, but navigating the complex world of healthcare can be daunting, not to mention the time required away from one's job and family.  Caregivers can quickly become overwelmed by the care recipients needs and compassion fatigue becoming a real consequence. It is difficult to ask for help and often individuals don't know where to turn to find the resources that will enable them to sift through information to make the choices that will work best for them. A few resources are listed to at least give you a place to begin navigating the complexities the come with being a caregiver. 

 

Caregiver's Prayer

Compassionate and healing God, help us to see your face
in the faces of our sisters and brothers who are sick or injured.
Guide us to reach out to them with hearts of compassion
and hands which serve their needs.
When they are anxious,
help us to know how to reassure them.
When they feel alone,
help us to notice and be present.
When they feel confused, help us to listen and assist
in finding answers to their concerns.
When they need comfort, help us to communicate care and understanding.
When they are weak or discouraged help us find ways to refresh their spirits. When doubt or darkness touches them, give your Light to guide them
and lift them up.
Help us as caregivers to always turn to You as the source
of our own strength and compassion as we seek to serve the needs of
our sisters and brothers who are vulnerable.

Amen.