Help for Caregivers
The
Reverse Gift List
By Gary Barg,
(originally published in "Scleroderma Voice,"
2004 #4)
I would like to introduce you to a new game I want
all caregivers to learn to play. It’s called the
“Reverse Gift List” game. It’s easy
and fun for the entire family. Here’s how it’s
played. The only things you will need are a pencil,
paper, and a little faith.
 Ready?
Okay, let’s start playing. Make two columns on
a fresh piece of paper (or computer screen). Entitle
the first column “People I trust,” and title
the second column “Things they can do.”
(Don”t race ahead or you’ll take all the
fun out of it). In the “People” column,
list all of the people who you think would do any little
thing for you. And in the “Things” column,
make a list of simple tasks that would help you and
your loved one. Then match up the task to person and
ask for your holiday gifts. Allow me to show you an
example.
People: Marnie (neighbor), Linda (sister), Amy
(friend), Melissa (cousin), Phyllis (neighbor), Mary
(co-worker).
List of things: Cook dinner for us once a month.
Pick up groceries twice a month. Watch dad for two hours
on a weekend. Come over for one night to talk. Make
calls to the insurance company. (Feel free to add to
this list…it’s endless).
Now, when people ask what they can do (or even if they
don’t), you are ready with bite-sized, manageable
tasks that will help you and make them feel good for
being able to be of some help. The most astounding thing
about this game is once you become a good player, you
can accumulate a total of an entire day’s worth
of respite and support each and every week (an hour
at a time). Remember, respite can be achieved on a daily
basis with the smallest of kindnesses. And, respite
does not have to be found outside of the home or take
the entire day. Having someone watch your loved one
for a few hours while you luxuriate in a long, hot bubble
bath counts, too.
The cost to play our new game is minimal and the winnings
great. There is no money down and a tremendous reduction
in stress, strain, and depression. So, don’t delay
and join the millions of caregivers who have learned
how to give better care for their loved one and themselves
by playing our fun new game, “The Reverse Gift
List!” A great game to play in any season, and
nobody ever turns you down when you ask him or her to
play. (Better than Parcheesi!)
(Batteries sold separately).
Gary Barg is Founder and Editor-in-Chief of "Today’s
Caregiver Magazine" and www.caregiver.com
and the co-author/editor of the book "The Fearless
Caregiver." Send questions or comments to him at
gary@caregiver.com.
Copyright 2004, "Today’s Caregiver Magazine."
Subscriptions are available by calling 800-829-2734,
or online at www.caregiver.com. |
