Why self-care is essential for sustainable caregiving
Caring for a loved one—especially as both a caregiver and a healthcare advocate—can be one of the most meaningful, yet emotionally and physically demanding roles we take on. You might feel like you’re juggling a thousand tasks while trying to stay strong for someone you love. Even when you’ve checked every box, lined up all the resources, and advocated tirelessly, things can still shift unexpectedly.
I know this firsthand. My family and I are living our new “normal” while caring for my mom. As a nurse and a professional independent healthcare advocate, I’m trained to find solutions. But in this season of life, I’ve had to accept a difficult truth: sometimes, even when you know the root cause, the problem doesn’t completely go away. For my mom, the issue is her aging heart.
When the Care Plan Changes
Recently, our family made a significant change to my mom’s healthcare team. It turned out to be the right move. We finally had answers, and we celebrated this progress. But clarity doesn’t always equal resolution. That’s the hard part. Knowing what’s wrong doesn’t always mean you can fix it.
As caregivers, especially when we’re also family, this can feel like a heavy burden. We want to do everything, be everywhere, and protect the ones we love. But the truth is—we can’t do it all alone.
It’s OK to “Tap Out”—And Here’s Why
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is this: it’s not only OK to ask for help—it’s necessary. Tapping out doesn’t mean giving up. It means recognizing your limits and giving someone else the chance to step in. It means resting so that you can return to your loved one renewed, with more love, presence, and patience.
For me, tapping out looked like preparing a detailed healthcare binder and “to-do” list for my brother, who flew in from Vermont to care for our mom for nine days. I realized that I needed time to recharge so I could show up better for her.
And that is what my mom sees and feels—not the to-do list, not the medical jargon, but the love.
From Caregiver to Advocate—And Back Again
At Stepping Stone Advocacy Services, we meet families exactly where they are—overwhelmed, confused, or just tired. We bring organization, clarity, coordination, and compassion to the table. As nurse-patient advocates, we don’t just check boxes—we truly understand what it’s like to be in your shoes.
And because I’ve lived it, I want you to hear this clearly:
You have permission to “tap out.”
Not only for your own well-being but for the well-being of your loved one.
How We Can Help
Whether you’re just beginning the caregiving journey or deep in the trenches, you don’t have to do it alone. Our team of experienced nurse-patient advocates can support you and your loved ones with personalized care coordination, healthcare navigation, and compassionate guidance.
📞 Schedule a free introductory call today to learn how we can support you.