Caring
for Others
CARING FOR THOSE
WITH CHRONIC PAIN
When you’re a caregiver for someone with chronic pain, their condition can take a toll on both of you in many ways. You both face the daily challenge of living with the physical and emotional burden of with severe pain.
You’ll both share a long journey together: Here are some important steps the two of you can take together to manage the emotional, physical, and financial challenges of chronic pain.
PHYSICAL
SUPPORT
Chronic pain often starts with changes in the body and the way it moves and functions. Injuries, surgeries, the loss of a limb – common causes of chronic pain are often events that leave your loved one with lasting physical changes.
Those changes may limit your loved one’s ability to work, to take part in favorite activities, or simply help around the house. As a caregiver, you may find yourself adjusting to new and different household tasks, chores, and other daily manual responsibilities. So how can you help?
Be understanding.
Your loved one’s new limitations can mean adjustment to both your daily routines and what you expect from each other day to day. Let them know you are on their side and that they can rely on you to be there with them every step of the way.
EMOTIONAL
SUPPORT
Physical changes often come with an emotional impact – changes in the way your loved one thinks of him or herself. Chronic pain keeps people from familiar activities, limits how they can be part of their daily lives, and can take away your loved one’s sense of identity and purpose. Not surprisingly, people with chronic pain often struggle with frustration, depression, and loneliness. And that can mean emotional challenges for the caregiver too.
Be patient.
As a caregiver, you may have to help your loved one manage many of the negative emotions that come from living with chronic pain. Your loved one may need you to be a listening ear for many of their daily challenges.
Offer support – and ask for it, too.
Listen, understand, and give your loved one support and encouragement. But remember that caregivers need all those things too.
FINANCIAL
PREPARATION
Chronic pain can be a significant financial challenge for both of you. It can keep you both away from work and can lead to costly medical bills. That’s why one of the most important steps a caregiver can take is to prepare financially, to understand your insurance coverage, and to plan ahead for costs and expenses related to your loved one’s treatment and care.
Know your coverage.
Insurance can be complicated, but it’s vital to your financial security. If you need help understanding your coverage, many healthcare providers can help connect you with patient navigators or financial counselors who specialize in medical expenses.