Do You Feel Unappreciated?

When you’re feeling unwanted or unappreciated, that can color your entire experience as a caregiver. You might even start to feel dejected or as if you can’t do anything right. But that’s probably not accurate and there are a lot of factors at play.

You’re Needed, but You Might Feel Unwanted

Senior Care Thomasville, NC:Do You Feel Unappreciated?

Your senior might need your help very much, but that doesn’t mean that she wants your help. The worst of it is that she might share with you that she isn’t happy with your presence. In some situations, that can become a big obstacle for you when it comes to making sure that she has what she needs the most. You might even find that hiring senior care providers helps you to do what has to be done without feeling the brunt of your senior’s anger and frustration.

Your Senior’s Needs Can Change
Over time, your senior’s needs can change quite a bit. At first, she might have some general needs, but as her health declines she may start to realize just how much it helps to have you there doing the hard work for her. As her needs change, her perspective can change, too. That might mean that she’s less likely to take her own feelings out on you.

You Might Need to Be Your Own Cheerleader
For at least some period, you might need to be your own cheerleader. This isn’t always easy to do, but it is possible. Having a reward system can help a lot, as can making sure that you’re taking respite time. When you solve a problem or do something that was difficult, give yourself a point or a mental high five. You might also want to start keeping a list of accomplishments that you can look over when you really need a morale boost.

Appreciation Feels Good, but Doesn’t Always Do Much to Help
You might also want to delve deeper into why you want to feel more appreciated. You’re doing a lot for your senior and that’s important, but what’s your underlying goal or desire? It can help to understand that because while appreciation from others feels good, it’s not always a practical tool that you can use in everyday life.

You’re putting a lot of time and energy into being a caregiver and that’s incredible of you, especially since you’re likely putting parts of your life on hold. But you may also need to come to terms with the fact that your senior may not be willing or able to give you the appreciation you want.

Excerpt: Feeling unappreciated as a caregiver is not an enjoyable experience.

If you or an aging loved one are considering Senior Care in Thomasville, NC, contact the caring professionals at Tender Hearted Home Care today. Call us at (704) 207-0265.