For Caregivers
As a caregiver, you are our partner in care.
While caregiving is rewarding, it can also be challenging. At TTSH, we recognise your efforts, commitment and dedication. This site is created specially for caregivers like you.
A Caregiver's Journey
Each caregiver's journey is unique. You may just be entering the role, or have been in it for some time or caring for someone at the end of life. No matter where you are, we will like to support you.
I am a new caregiver
As a new caregiver, you will be embarking on a journey of highs and lows.
To help you adapt, be prepared by knowing the roles, responsibilities and expectations of a caregiver.
I am a caregiver for sometime
Your care recipient's needs changes over time and you are constantly learning and adapting to their changing needs.
Coping strategies, being aware of available help and where to get help are useful skills for a caregiver.
I am caring for someone at the end of life
Caring for someone at the end of life can be stressful and overwhelming.
Services such as palliative care can help you with managing the holistic well-being and improving the quality of life of your care recipient and family.
FAQ
Roles and responsibilities of a caregiver:
- Prearing to Care
- Caregiver Matters Basics: Am I a Caregiver?
Caregiver training courses / programs:
Caregiver Resources:
- By TTSH Health Library
- By AIC
- Caregiver Matters Basics: Knowledge and skills
- Planning ahead
Self-care for Caregivers:
- Tips by Carers X Physio
- Tips by AIC
Coping strategies:
- Caregiver Matters Basics: Coping Strategies
- Setting up Care Routine by AIC
Community resources:
Self-care for Caregivers:
- Tips by Carers X Physio
- Tips by AIC
- Respite
- Caregiver Support Groups
Palliative care involves a team of professionals that focus on the holistic well-being of patients at the end of life and their family.
The following resources can assist you with the care of your care recipient at the end stage of life:
- Nutrition in Advanced Illness by Singapore Hospice Council
- Understanding the Final Hours by Singapore Hospice Council
- End of Life Signs
Upon the passing of your care recipient, there are certain rites and legal procedures that needs to be done. These resources can guide you with this process:
- Preparing for funeral
- Post-death matters
- When a death occurs-A Guide to Practical Matters by Singapore Hospice Council
Grief is a natural reaction to the loss of someone. Take time to grieve, remember to take care of yourself and talk to someone if you need to.
Supporting a Caregiver
Being a caregiver can be challenging as they have to manage many added tasks and responsibilities. By creating a community of carers, we can help to support caregivers in small ways.
There are only four kinds of people in the world. Those who have been caregivers. Those who are currently caregivers. Those who will be caregivers, and those who will need a caregiver.
Rosalynn Carter
Being a caregiver can be challenging as they have to manage many added tasks and responsibilities. There may be a time when we will either care for our loved ones or need care ourselves. By creating a community of carers, we can help to support caregivers in small ways. If you know of any caregivers, here are some ways that you can support them:
Continue to keep in touch
Caregivers are easily occupied with the responsibilities and tasks to perform for both their care recipient and themselves. They might not have the time and energy to connect with you the way it was before they become caregivers. However, that does not mean that they do not want to be remembered. Keep them in the loop whenever you sent out invitations. Do not exclude them just because he/ she often has to decline and do not make him/ her feel guilty for declining or taking time to reply to your messages. At times, you may not know what to say to reach out to them but a simple gesture asking "How are you?" could make them feel less isolated.
Offer help
Family caregivers often have difficulties asking for help. They may feel overwhelmed or feel that they should not burden others with caregiving tasks or personal errands. We may not know what help caregivers need so by asking, "What can I do to help?" may be very useful. One of the biggest help you can offer is the gift of time. Caregivers need time to recharge. By taking over the care of his/ her care recipient for a period of time will allow the caregiver precious time to care for themselves. You may also offer to run simple errands such as buying food or groceries or accompany/ transport them when they bring their care recipients to medical appointments.
Listen sincerely
Caregivers often need a listening ear to vent out their worry, frustrations and sorrow. They do not need you to solve their problems or need your advices to better the situation. Unless the caregiver asks for your opinion or advice, it is best to just be present and listen. You do not want to be seen as intruding or criticizing their caregiving. When listening, do not judge the caregiver for making certain decisions because you are not in their shoes.
