Caring for the Carer

Thanks to our Caregiving Heros

Life Rebalanced Chronicles: Family Rebalanced

The onset of a vestibular condition changes everything, including your relationships. When Johan first experienced vestibular dysfunction felt like he was letting his family down. In Family Rebalanced he shares how he learned to be vulnerable and accept the love, support, and compassion from those closest to him.

Celebrating Vestibular Care Partners

November is caregiver awareness month, an opportunity to focus on and celebrate all those who support vestibular patients. To recognize those individuals who provide caregiving support to a family member or loved one struggling with vestibular dysfunction, we are celebrating Caring for the Carer (C4C).

Family care partners are the foundation of long-term care nationwide, and being a care partner comes with a sometimes high emotional, psychological, social, and financial price. Oftentimes, family and friends are diverse, representing almost every age, gender, race, and ethnicity, and are sometimes overlooked. Together, they share the challenges and rewards of supporting a loved one in need. However, the condition and care requirements of their loved ones, as well as their own circumstances, personal strengths, and resources, are all factors that make the caring experience different for each individual.  

The vestibular community is full of caring, dedicated family members, friends, loved ones, and healthcare professionals who support people living with debilitating vestibular dysfunction. VeDA understands how much care partners contribute to those with vestibular disorders, and we’ve created resources to help them.

Ways to get involved in C4C:

CARE PARTNER TIP

The best care partner tip we can offer is to take care of yourself so that you can be present to fully support your loved one. Engage in self-care without feeling guilty.  Ask yourself

    • Are you getting enough rest? 
    • Do you go out and do fun things just for yourself, even if your loved one can't participate? 
    • Are you eating right, exercising, and taking care of your own physical and mental health?
    • Do you have enough support?

VeDA has a Facebook support group called Vestibular Voices of Care dedicated to the specific challenges and rewards of vestibular care partners.  Join them at facebook.com/groups/vestibularcarer.

BALANCE HEROS

A huge part of C4C is our Balance Hero Program, which recognizes people who have gone above and beyond in the assistance of vestibular patients. During C4C you can shine a spotlight on your care partners and their stories.  Balance Heros may come from any role within the vestibular community, including but not limited to patients, care partners, family members, supportive friends, coworkers, or healthcare providers. Nominations open November 1st.