Navigating the Caregiving Journey with Your Parents

Tools and Tips for Supporting a Loved One

Caregiving for a loved one is one of life’s most challenging, exhausting yet meaningful journeys. Whether you’re stepping into the role for the first time or have been on this path for years, finding tools to make the process more manageable can be a game-changer.

We cared for my mom in our home for approximately three years before she went to live her best life with Jesus. We learned so much during that time. Recently, I shared some advice with a friend who’s making the difficult decision about her mother’s care, and I realized that many others might benefit from these same insights.

Here are a few practical tools and resources that helped me during my caregiving journey, along with some encouragement for those facing these decisions.

1. Caregiving Call Buttons

Sometimes, the smallest tools can make the biggest difference. A caregiver call button system provides peace of mind for both the caregiver and the loved one.

• Fancier Option: This caregiving bell looks elegant and serves the same practical purpose as the one I used.
• Simple and Effective Option: The call button system I used came with two call buttons and a wireless caregiver pager. It’s easy to set up, has a great range, and includes wearable lanyards for convenience. We loved this brand—it’s super simple and easy to use.

Having a way for your loved one to easily alert you when they need help is invaluable—especially at night or when you’re in another part of the house. When I had private caregivers for my mom, they would leave the receiver in the room they were in so they could hear it ring.

2. Indoor Security Cameras

Keeping an eye on your loved one while respecting their independence is another way to provide safe, effective care. Cameras can offer reassurance without constant hovering.

• I used the Blink Indoor Cameras, and they were fantastic. These small, unobtrusive cameras let me check in on my mom and another loved one without being invasive.

When shopping for cameras, make sure to choose indoor models and look for features like motion detection and two-way audio if you need to communicate remotely. I had one in her bedroom (to see when she was moving around) and by the front door (to see caregiver come in and out, if I wasn't home). I did not put one in the bathroom for privacy reasons. I just felt like she had already lost so much independence. 

If I had to run an errand and was away from the house, I set alerts on my phone so I’d know if my mom got up. I could check in with her periodically through the camera system, which honestly was easier than her trying to answer her cellphone. If my mom wanted to start a conversation with me through the cameras, she would call me first to tell me to go to the Blink app!

I will say Mom was happy to have the camera in her room. It definitely added an extra measure of safety for her. 

3. Acknowledging the Emotional Toll

While these tools are incredibly helpful, the most challenging part of caregiving often isn’t the logistics—it’s the emotions. Making decisions about a loved one’s care, especially when considering assisted living or other placements, can feel overwhelming and even heartbreaking.

Here are some thoughts I shared with my friend that might resonate with you:

• Acknowledge the difficulty: Deciding the next steps for your loved one’s care is never easy. Give yourself grace and understand that there’s no “perfect” answer—only the one that aligns with their needs and your resources. And be open to your decision fluctuating while their needs may change. 
• Focus on safety and well-being: It’s okay to prioritize what will keep your loved one safe and cared for, even if it means making tough decisions.
• Reach out for support: Whether it’s family, friends, or a support group, lean on others who understand the caregiving journey. You shouldn’t do it alone. In fact, I would say it is not good for your emotional health to walk this journey alone. 

It’s also important to recognize that not everyone in your circle will understand what you’re going through. If someone hasn’t been in the position of being a caregiver, they might not be the best person to turn to for advice. Connecting with others who have walked this path can make a huge difference—there’s comfort in shared experiences.

4. Final Thoughts

Caregiving is a labor of love, and it’s filled with ups and downs. Having the right tools and a strong support system can make all the difference. You may even find a whole new depth to friendships when you meet other caregivers—I know I did.

If you’re a caregiver or stepping into that role, I hope these tips give you a starting point. You’re not alone, and the work you’re doing is deeply meaningful. I have so much I could say about this topic, but for today, we’ll stop here.