No one really wants to think or even talk about when he/she can no longer do for themselves. But, at some point in life we all must grasp with the fact that any chronic illness will eventually lead us down this path. It is the reality of life, and we must prepare ourselves in advance for this. I know it is a subject matter that some don't want to face, but we must face.
Incapacity means that you are unable to care for yourself or your property. An incapacitated person suffers from a loss of autonomy or mental ability. You can have a physical health problem and still be fully capable of making your own decisions. But what about when your physical and mental health declines? Who will care for you?
Caring for someone with lupus can be difficult. Any person with the affliction is on a rollercoaster of flare-ups and uncertainty of what it will bring next. Caregivers must realize, there will be times when you need to make sacrifices, because your loved one with lupus will have needs that have to be met above all else. However, you need to be sure your needs are being met as well so you do not burn out.
Caring for someone with a chronic disease involves challenges, both physical and mental. While the patient and caregiver may already have or develop a close bond, caregiving often takes a great physical and emotional toll on the one providing constant care. When caring for an individual with lupus it is important that he/she is knowledgeable about this chronic illness.
Your caregiver should:
Learn All He/She Can
Learning about the disease arms you with knowledge so you can better interact with health professionals — you will ask the right questions when talking with the doctor. When researching online, be sure to seek out credible sources.
Ask For Help
It is not a sign of weakness to ask for help or accept help offered. Accepting help is as much for your own good as it is for your loved one with lupus.
Help can come from friends and family and health professionals, or our community may have support groups and other helpful resources.
Take Time for Him/Herself
Even if caring for your loved one takes up a lot of your time, you still need to make time to keep in touch with friends and enjoy the things that make you happy. If you can’t meet up with people, call or email them to catch up. You need to have an outlet.
Be Prepared for a Flare
It is important to recognize the early warning signs of a flare, which can be different in each person with lupus. They include increased joint pain, elevated body temperature, hair thinning, and increased fatigue.
The One Topic We Don't Want To Think About. Did this topic get you to think? We all have to face this fact, there are many twists and turns when it comes to Lupus and life in general. Allow me to make a suggestion. Start today and set things in motion, make a list of the individuals who you want as your caregiver. Make a list of questions you would like to ask these individuals, find out how knowledgeable they are about your illness. It's your choice, it's up to you. Don't wait for someone else to take control.
