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Parkinson's Disease Support
Self-care: the best way to care for others
By reading this, caregivers have taken
the first step towards self-care: the most important thing
you can do to help the
PD patient. You’ve recognized your need for information,
support, and new ideas for dealing with the many facets of
caregiving.
The second step is to recognize that
you are not alone. There are millions of people just like
you across the country, asking
the same questions, feeling the same feelings, and looking
for a better way. We have listed the most popular sites for
Parkinson’s caregivers below, and we hope you also check
out the Resource section of this site for more information.
The links below are not controlled by
Valeant Pharmaceuticals International or its affiliates.
Valeant Pharmaceuticals International assumes no responsibility
or
liability for the views, content or accuracy of this information,
nor does it endorse any products that may be advertised or
noted on these websites.
www.caregiver.com
Caregiver Media Group
www.caregiving.org
National Alliance for Caregiving
www.nfcacares.org
National Family Caregivers Association
www.parkinsonseducator.com
Parkinson’s Training
www.parkinson.org
National Parkinson Foundation: Caregivers' Forum
Ten Tips for Family Caregivers
- Choose to take charge of your life,
and don't let your loved one's illness or disability always
take center stage.
- Remember to be good to yourself. Love,
honor and value yourself. You're doing a very hard job and
you deserve
some quality time, just for you.
- Watch out for signs of depression, and
don't delay in getting professional help when you need it.
- When people offer to help, accept the
offer and suggest specific things that they can do.
- Educate yourself about your loved one's
condition. Information is empowering.
- There's a difference between caring
and doing. Be open to technologies and ideas that promote
your loved one's
independence.
- Trust your instincts. Most of the time
they'll lead you in the right direction.
- Grieve for your losses, and then allow
yourself to dream new dreams.
- Stand up for your rights as a caregiver
and a citizen.
- Seek support from other caregivers.
There is great strength in knowing you are not alone.
Contributed by the National Family Caregivers Association
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