WHO CARES FOR THE CAREGIVER?
By Ewere Okonta
08037383019
ewereokonta20@gmail.com
www.ewereokontablog.org.ng
Caregiving is a job that is often underappreciated. Many people who undertake this role do not fully comprehend the magnitude of what they are taking on until they have begun. Caregiving can become a way of life, with caregivers dedicating their time, energy, and resources to helping their loved ones. But who is taking care of the caregiver?
To all the caregivers out there who are shouldering the responsibility of caring for the sick and suffering, and especially to Stella, a devoted wife who became a caregiver to Ngozi – we commend and honour your unwavering commitment and selfless devotion.
As a caregiver, it’s essential to acknowledge that you must care for yourself before you can care for anyone else adequately. You may not think that you have spare time for yourself, as your loved one needs you 24/7. However, it would help if you prioritized self-care to avoid burnout.
It was precisely on October 9, 2023, that the Ngozi medical journey began. Subsequently, she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, and that was when Stella’s caregiving journey began.
*HOW TO PROVIDE CARE FOR AN OVARIAN CANCER PATIENTS*
Ovarian cancer is a challenging disease that affects thousands of women globally. It is a disease that takes a toll on the physical and emotional well-being of a patient, and as such, requires an appropriate caregiver to manage the patient. Caregiving is an essential aspect of ovary cancer treatment as it provides patients with the comfort they need during their treatment journey. In this article, we will discuss the various ways to provide caregiving to ovarian cancer patients and how to care for the caregiver.
Firstly, providing emotional support to patients is crucial. It is a challenging time for the patients, and they need someone to lean on during their treatment journey. It is essential to provide emotional and psychological support to these patients. As a caregiver, one can provide companionship, offer words of encouragement and hope, and provide a listening ear to patients. This support can go a long way in helping patients feel valued, loved, and appreciated, even during their most challenging times.
Secondly, it is essential to help patients manage their symptoms. Ovarian cancer patients may experience various symptoms such as pain, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting. Caregivers can offer support by assisting patients to take their medication on time and managing their symptoms. Providing them with a nutritious diet, encouraging them to stay hydrated, and ensuring they get adequate rest can help manage these symptoms.
Thirdly, it is crucial to accompany them to their medical appointments. Ovarian cancer patients need regular medical check-ups, and as a caregiver, it is essential to accompany them to these appointments. Caregivers can help patients ask the right questions, take notes during consultations, and ensure that medical instructions are followed with precision.
Fourthly, providing practical support can be helpful. As a caregiver, helping with household chores such as cleaning, laundry, grocery shopping, and cooking can help alleviate patients of the stress of these activities. Caregivers can help patients plan out their schedules, organise their medications, and help them with administrative tasks.
Finally, as a caregiver, it is essential to take care of oneself. It can be overwhelming taking care of ovarian cancer patients, and as such, caregivers need to take care of themselves too. Taking breaks, engaging in rejuvenating activities, and seeking support from family and friends can help alleviate the strain that comes with caregiving.
Further, providing caregiving to ovarian cancer patients is an essential aspect of their journey to recovery. Emotional support, symptom management, accompanying them to medical appointments, practical support, and self-care are crucial elements of caregiving. By following these tips and providing appropriate support, caregivers can help ovarian cancer patients navigate their treatment journey. It is essential to remember that caregiving can be challenging, but it is a rewarding experience that can help patients heal and recover quickly.
Stella provided all this care and more, but Ngozi could not recover from this ailment as agent of death came knocking on June 4, 2024.
Stella’s situation is all too familiar. In her quest to care for Ngozi, she neglected her business, her health and her family, and even though she was a sister in-law to Ngozi, she became overnight a nurse, a sister and a mother to Ngozi. This level of commitment deserves recognition and attention.
*WAYS TO HELP PROVIDE CARE TO A CAREGIVER:*
Providing care to a caregiver who is caring for a person with ovarian cancer is important to ensure their own physical and emotional wellbeing.
Provide physical help – Offer to assist with tasks such as cooking meals, running errands, cleaning, or caring for children to relieve the caregiver of some responsibilities.
Emotional support – Create a safe space for them to share their feelings and frustrations. Provide a listening ear and encourage them to seek professional support if necessary.
Education – Provide information about ovarian cancer, treatment options available, and what to expect during and after treatments.
Encourage self-care – Encourage the caregiver to take breaks, spend time with friends and family, or engage in activities they enjoy. Remind them that taking care of their well-being is just as important as caring for the patient.
Connect with support groups – Encourage the caregiver to connect with support groups or attend counseling sessions with other caregivers who are going through similar experiences.
Additionally, it’s important to communicate with the caregiver and find out what support they specifically need. There are also resources available online which provides caregivers with support, information, and resources.
It’s worth noting that caregiving is not a one-man job. As a caregiver, don’t hesitate to delegate tasks to other family members and friends. Allow them to provide assistance with errands, groceries, household tasks, and even sitting with the patient while you take a break.
Caregiving can also lead to feelings of isolation, depression, and anxiety. It would help if you took some time to engage in activities that bring you joy, such as reading, cooking, or a hobby. Feel free to connect with other caregivers in your community or online to share experiences and advice.
Furthermore, ensure that you maintain a healthy lifestyle. Don’t neglect your physical and mental health, as this can lead to a decline in both your caregiving abilities and your overall well-being. Eat healthily, exercise regularly, and make time for social interaction.
In conclusion, caregivers play a crucial role in society. They are the unsung heroes who work tirelessly to care for their loved ones, sometimes at great personal cost. However, it’s important to remember that caregivers, too, need care and support. If you’re a caregiver, prioritize self-care to avoid burnout, delegate tasks, connect with others, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Thank you to all the caregivers out there, and especially to Stella, for the immeasurable sacrifices and efforts you have made. Your dedication and selflessness are nothing short of heroic.
*Ewere Okonta is the CEO of EOB Media. He writes from the Department of Business Administration, University of Delta, Agbor.*