Are You a Caregiver for a Person with Special Needs?

If you are a caregiver of a person with special needs there are many useful tips that will help you provide the best care for your loved one:

1. Research and learn more about your family member’s condition and special needs requirements.
2. Talk to health care providers and other professionals who work with families with special needs.
3. Work with your family to make the best decisions about housing, schools, and health services.
4. Be aware of the signs of emotional or physical abuse, and watch how other people are caring for the person with special needs.
5. Become a member of a local or online support group.
6. Research local, state and national groups, as well as programs that provide services, recreation, and information for families with special needs.
7. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Know your rights. Acquaint yourself with how and when to apply the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Family Medical Leave Act, and other state and national provisions.
8. Provide other caregivers, such as dental and medical staff of any special conditions or instructions.
9. Document the medical history and care issues of your family member with special needs, and keep this information current.
10. Speak to your employer about your situation and your need to arrange flexible scheduling when needed.
11. Celebrate appropriate milestones, memorable events and achievements of your family member with special needs.
12. Finally, it is very important that you take care of yourself and stay healthy. Keep up with the activities and hobbies that you enjoy doing and get together with your friends. Be reasonable about your expectations about caregiving. Remember that short or long breaks can help to relieve stress.