Caregiver Bill of Rights

As a family caregiver, I have the right to…

...Take care of myself. This is not an act of selfishness. It will give me the capability of taking better care of my loved one.

...Seek help from others even though my relatives may object. I recognize the limits of my own endurance and strength.

...Maintain facets of my own life that do not include the person I care for, just as I would if he or she were healthy. I know that I do everything that I reasonably can for this person and I have the right to do some things just for myself.

...Get angry, be depressed, and express other difficult feelings occasionally.

...Reject any attempts of my loved one (whether conscious or unconscious) to manipulate me through guilt and/or depression.

...Receive consideration, affection, forgiveness and acceptance from my loved one for what I do, for as long as I offer these qualities in return.

...Take pride in what I am accomplishing and to applaud the courage it has sometimes taken to meet the needs of my loved one.

...Protect my individuality and my right to make a life for myself that will sustain me in the time when my loved one no longer needs my help.

...Accept and demand that as new strides are made in finding resources to aid people who are physically and mentally impaired, similar strides will be made toward aiding and supporting caregivers.

Courtesy of AMITA Health System

Ready to take the next step? To learn more about how Friendship Village can help you and your loved ones Get Set 4 Life®, please call us at 847-490-6271 to speak with a Friendship Village Residency Counselor.