Invest In Helping Yourself

How Caregivers work full time

My Dad has been hospitalized for major surgeries three times in the
last two years.  I always ask my Mom, during those times, if she's
eating well and sleeping well.

As a caregiver (not caretaker), Mom provides emotional and physical
care for my Dad.  It's a full time job, and I know she puts her own
needs or feelings aside a lot of the time.  I remind her that taking good
care of herself makes her better equipped to handle her care giving
responsibilities.

Fortunately, these days there are agencies that provide resources for
assistance and support.  Some of it is even voluntary.  They also help
Mom learn about Dad's diagnosis and treatment, so she can make
informed decisions.

I encourage her to stay on top of her own medical checkups, screenings
and medications, so she stays healthy.  I also encourage her to try to
find some time she can do things by and for herself--a kind of
worry-free zone.

As a caregiver, I want Mom to give herself credit for all of her hard work.


Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309