Recently I came across Dr. Andrew Weil’s tips for caregivers in the health section of the online USA WEEKEND Magazine. (I read about it on an LBD-related discussion group.)
He insists that caregivers need to “maintain [their] own body and spirit while seeing [a] loved one through illness.”
Editor’s Note: Article no longer available
http://www.usaweekend.com/07_
Taking care of the caregiver
It’s not all about the sick person, says the famous holistic doctor. To polish your bedside manners, follow these 8 tips.
By Andrew Weil, M.D.
USA WEEKEND Magazine
May 6, 2007
Though Dr. Weil says he has eight tips for caregivers, I count nine! They are:
1- Put yourself high on the priority list.
2- Realize that you may experience resentment.
3- De-stress yourself.
4- Don’t forsake sound nutrition habits.
5- Exercise matters, too.
6- Be careful about alcohol.
7- Plan something to look forward to.
8- Find someone who has successfully done what you’re doing.
9- Be prepared to say goodbye.
As part of his suggestions, he recommends one book in particular:
“There are great books to help people deal with their feelings. A favorite of mine is ‘A Year to Live’ by Stephen Levine.”
This short article is worth reading.
Robin