Primary Caregivers

Learn about the road ahead and the importance of self-care.

“There are only four kinds of people in the world: Those who have been caregivers, those who currently are caregivers, those who will be caregivers and those who will need a caregiver. “

Rosalyn Carter

primary caretake for husband who is dying

Whether you are the primary caregiver or one of many caregivers, your contribution to the quality of care a dying patient receives cannot be overstated.

Whether you are a professional caregiver or a novice doing on-the-job training, you are the one on the front lines doing the daily tasks that make the quality of care possible.

Whether this is a labor of love or a perfunctory assignment, you have an opportunity to have personal growth just by being in the presence of a dying

I have not forgotten anyone that I have supported while facing the end of life. Each passing has been unique and had something to teach me. We do what needs to be done up to a certain point and then at some undefined, magical moment, we have to surrender, let go ……. knowing the patient is doing the same. For me it is always utterly profound …. that moment.

The Dying Your Way website will benefit the dying patient in many ways, but it is also meant for you, the caregiver.

In the DYW Portal Program, the patient will create an end of life plan and you will be integral to making that plan happen, as much as medically possible.

Having knowledge of the patient’s end of life wishes, you will:

Communicate in a focused fashion with the patient, other family members and medical professionals
Have confidence knowing the best next steps
Become aware of ways to provide for your own self-care
Be part of a team led by the patient themselves
Learn to ask for help and delegate
Develop realistic boundaries so you do not become the patient!

You can learn essential steps that allow for a natural and peaceful transition for those you care for or refresh what you already know. You can share what you learn with others and refer to the DYW Portal Program as often as you like.

The more others realize and appreciate the importance of your role as caregiver, the more likely others will step forward to help.

The patient’s end of life wishes will be the rudder of the ship. With the EOL plan and a team approach, terminal patients can stay in their home for a longer period of time with the best quality of care, while lowering medical costs.

I hope you find value in this website and the DYW Portal Program.

You are a Godsend!

Claire O’Berry