How Can People Help Me?

If you suddenly find yourself a caregiver for a disabled person—permanently or temporarily—think of ways your friends can help you.  People will often offer to help you, but they do not know the best ways to be of assistance. 

As you think of ways your friends can help, write down the ideas.  Keep your list updated and handy.  Then when people say, “Let me know how I can help you,” you will be ready to let them know.  Most people WANT to help.  They are being more than just courteous.  Be prepared and be flexible.

• How can they help me handle my grocery shopping?

• How can they help me keep an appointment?

• How can they help me get my loved one into the church?

• Who can stay with my loved one while I go shopping for necessities?

• Will it help for someone to sit and visit with my family member?

• Who can take my loved one to the barber or beauty shop?

• Can my loved one be taken for a car ride just “to get out of the house”?

• Who can I call if I need special help lifting my family member?

• If I get behind doing housework, do I have friends I can call?

• Can I get someone to mow the lawn as a volunteer or at a reasonable, affordable price?

• Do I have a friend or family member who checks in with me by telephone every day?

The possibilities are nearly endless.  If you think things through as they come to your mind, you will be ready to help yourself and give your friends a sense of loyalty.  Most people really want to help. 

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