Chapter 1: The juggling act
Introduction
Funny how everything falls away from what is happening here. I make plans; the universe overrides them.
Whether you are caring for someone at home or providing occasional care in a hospital, hospice, or other facility, you will likely have several responsibilities. These may include working, looking after children, caring for aging parents, household tasks, as well as the added responsibilities of looking after the person who is ill.
People react to these competing demands in different ways. Click the arrows below to see three common reactions.
They find work or other responsibilities energizing and consider them a break from caregiving.
They find handling both work and caregiving is too much to manage. They may reduce work or find additional help for household tasks or caregiving responsibilities.
They feel stress and anxiety because they cannot afford to leave work or may have limited resources or options in caring for someone or getting help.
