Some people may have a tendency to avoid talking about subjects they don’t want to face. When a person is stressed out about their life, their finances, and other personal topics, they may try to hide these issues from the world around them, including their closest family and friends. Why?

Perhaps out of a sense of pride. People often don’t want others to think they are struggling. Yet, this only leads to more significant issues, especially with one’s health — both physical and emotional.

The same can be true about family caregivers. In today’s environment, there are tens of millions of Americans supporting and taking care of elderly and disabled loved ones. Whether it’s an aging parent, spouse, disabled adult child, sibling, or even a close friend, it doesn’t matter.

What matters is how being a family caregiver is affecting you, your family, your relationships, your health, and other aspects of your life. Don’t underestimate the impact that stress can have on many facets of a person’s life.

Stress affects everything.

It affects your ability to sleep at night, which can make it difficult to stay focused throughout the day. It can impact your relationships, causing harm, sometimes irreparably.

When a person is trying to look after and support another individual in need, if they have never done this before, mistakes are more likely to happen. That’s why home care is such a valuable asset.

Why do so many family caregivers not even discuss it?

Why do many of these family members avoid the topic of home care altogether? Often, it has to do with misconceptions about what home care is and does.

Some people only have certain misconceptions about home care, and they don’t like the idea of it because of those. So, why would they even bring it up to a loved one? Others feel taking care of an aging parent or grandparent is their responsibility. They assume it’s what’s expected of them.

Yet, quality home care agencies provide some of the best support for aging and disabled Americans from all walks of life and all backgrounds.

How to be more confident in discussing home care.

The most important thing is to gather as much relevant and accurate information about home care as possible. There are plenty of resources online, but you can also reach out to an agency to find out what they offer, the benefits they provide, and why home care is so important today.

The more people learn about home care –facts, not misconceptions — the more they realize it truly is the best option, especially for family caregivers who are feeling overwhelmed with stress and anxiety.

If you or an aging loved one is considering home care in Sterling, VA, please contact the caring staff at Assisting Hands today. (703) 782-3655.