Families with Special Needs

Being informed, getting support, and taking care of yourself can help you and those you care for stay safe and healthy.

Whether your family member with special needs is a child or an adult, combining personal, caregiving, and everyday needs can be challenging. Below are general caregiving tips for families with special needs to help you and those you care for stay safe and healthy.

• Be informed.
  Gather information about your family member's condition, and discuss issues with others. Being informed will help you make more knowledgeable health decisions and improve your understanding about any challenges your family might face.
• Get support.
  Accept assistance if appropriate, and ask for help when you need it. Friends, family, health practitioners, support groups, and counselors are just a few of the people available to you.
• Be an advocate.
  Ask questions, document your family member's medical history, and provide pertinent information to his or her caregivers.
• Be empowering.
  Think positively, and know what you and your family can do together. Celebrate achievements, and promote independence when appropriate.
• Take care of yourself.
  Stay aware of your own needs. Take some time for yourself. Enjoy a hobby, or visit with friends.
• Keep balance in the family.
  Take time for all family members, regardless of special needs.

These caregiving tips provide families with tools to stay healthy and positive. Keep in mind that these tools are applicable to many family issues. Information, support, advocacy, empowerment, care, and balance can be the foundation for a healthy family and appropriate no matter what the challenge.

For more information, visit Families with Special Needs: Caregiving Tips.

More Information

• Families with Special Needs
• Family Health
• Healthy Living
• Life Stages and Specific Populations
• People with Special Needs: Emergency Preparedness and Response