Finding the Humor in Caregiving
Caregiving is different for everyone. The experience a caregiver has is somewhat dependent on the physical, emotional, financial, and life strains of their care situation; however, it is also greatly impacted by two other issues—the perception the caregiver has about their situation, and the humor they use to get through tough situations. If a caregiver sees only the serious side of providing care, they are more likely to burnout and break down. It’s important to find the funny moments—to let go of what we cannot control and embrace the silly chaos of it all. Every caregiver deserves a bit of humor to make it through the day.
Here are a few ideas to help you find humor in caregiving:
- Buy a plastic wand. When someone asks you to fix a problem you don’t own, can’t fix—and don’t have the energy for—pick up the wand, swing it in the air with complete confidence and say, “All better”.
- “Sorry I can’t today. My sister’s friend’s mother’s grandpa’s brother’s uncle’s grandson’s fish died. And yes, it was tragic” (Pinterest.com). Find a fun way to tell people that a task needs to wait until tomorrow. Sometimes laughter is more important than reason.
Find humor resources and ideas in the February Caregiver News.
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