Serving as a caregiver is valuable and can be very rewarding. But it’s definitely not easy. People who are dual-eligible for both Medicaid and Medicare may have serious health conditions. And the constant demands of caring for someone with special needs can take an emotional toll. Knowing how to manage your feelings can make your role as a caregiver more successful and rewarding.

Here are common emotions caregivers feel:

a.  Some days are better than others
b.  I know my role is valuable, but it can be frustrating at times
c.  I sometimes feel guilty for having negative feelings about my caregiving
d.  All of the above

It can be hard to deal with your own emotions when you’re working hard to take care of someone else. But coping with your feelings is important. Caregiver stress, caregiver fatigue and caregiver guilt. These are some of the most common emotions caregivers feel. Below are skills to help you deal with these and other caregiver emotions.

For many people, becoming a caregiver is often a new experience. It’s understandable that you may feel unsure or overwhelmed at times. That’s why it’s important to know where to go for help. On the UnitedHealthcare website you’ll find valuable information and resources to help you on your caregiving journey.

UnitedHealthcare also offers dual-eligible health plans, or Dual Special Needs Plans, to help people who qualify for both Medicaid and Medicare. Those who are dually eligible for Medicaid and Medicare often have serious, ongoing medical needs. Dual-eligible health plans are designed to simplify life for members. And they can simplify life for caregivers as well. These plans make it easier to coordinate care for people who need to manage multiple doctors, specialists and care services.