Caregiver’s Bill of Rights

I have the right to take care of myself. This is not an act of selfishness. It will give me the ability to take better care of my loved one.

I have the right to seek help from others even though my loved one may object. I know the limits of my endurance and strength.

I have the right to maintain parts of my own life that do not include the person I care for just as if he/she was healthy. I know that I do everything that I reasonably can do for this person. I have the right to do some things for myself.

I have the right to get angry, be depressed, and express difficult feelings once in a while.

I have the right to reject any attempt by my loved one to make me do things out of guilt or anger. (It doesn’t matter is she/he knows they are doing it or not.)

I have the right to get considerations, affection, forgiveness, and acceptance for what I do for my loved one, as I offer these in return.

I have the right to take pride in what I am doing. And I have the right to applaud the courage it has taken to meet the needs of my loved one.

I have the right to protect my individuality. I also have the right to a life that will sustain me when my loved one no longer needs my full-time help.

Author unknown.
National Cancer Institute
Support for caregivers