As your loved one’s life changes, a variety of different emotions start to compete for time in your head and heart. If you don’t deal with those emotions, they can take over and either prolong your grieving process or rob you of the time that you have left with your parent.

Look for a Grief Support Group

As a family caregiver, you’ve likely joined quite a few support groups already on your caregiving journey. Finding a bereavement support group, however, can give you support of a different kind as you near the end of your caregiving journey. Make use of palliative care providers to take the time that you need.

Find Something to Fill Your Time

As your senior’s needs are changing, some of your time is likely more available to you than it has been. Filling that time with something new, such as a class or a volunteer situation, can help you to feel as if you still have something valuable to do.

Sort Your Feelings in a Journal

Journaling is a powerful tool at every stage of your caregiving journey. It’s a way for you to work through your feelings without worrying about someone else judging you. It’s also a way for you to figure out how you’re feeling because you can wander until you land on the right words.

Seek out a Counselor

Finding a counselor or a therapist who deals with grief issues can be tremendously helpful. Even if you only go a few times, that can be more helpful than not talking to someone at all. Try going, especially if you’re pretty sure it won’t do anything for you.

Help Others with the Knowledge You’ve Collected

You may also want to consider continuing to go to other support groups that you’ve joined during your time as a family caregiver. You’ve gained valuable knowledge that can really help other caregivers who are in similar situations as the ones you’ve already gone through.

Finding new ways to help yourself and other family members deal with everything happening at this time can bring you all closer together.

If you or an aging loved-one are considering palliative care in Bethlehem, PA, please contact the caring staff at Serenity Hospice today. Call (215) 867-5405.