Understanding the Role of Family Caregivers: Support and Responsibilities

When a family member is chronically ill or unable to care for himself, often family members step in to provide assistance or around-the-clock care. A family caregiver is someone who is likely related to the patient needing care. Being a family caregiver means sacrificing time to meet the needs of the patient.

Housekeeping

• A helpful way for a family caregiver to assist the patient is to provide general housekeeping services such as laundry, mopping floors and keeping the home clean.

Hygiene Care

• Making sure that the patient is clean and that wounds and sores heal properly is essential in overall care and optimal health.

Errand Running

• Family caregivers can go the grocery store to pick up food, pay bills and take the patient to doctor visits.

Respite

• Family caregivers also need a break from time to time; other family members may step in and provide additional reprieve or respite, so the original caregiver can get a break.

Companionship

• Often, the patient is widowed or lives alone. Companionship from family members offers security and a sense of familiarity to the patient.