Caregiving is a team endeavor. No one person – no matter how capable – should attempt or be expected to travel this journey without assistance. Assembling a care team will not only result in a better outcome for the receiver, but will also facilitate caregivers in maintaining their own physical, mental and emotional health.

The ideal time to begin developing your team is as soon as you commit to becoming a caregiver. You may have some time to prepare, or this may occur suddenly in the case of an acute illness such as a stroke.

Call all willing members of the family together for an open and honest discussion. If appropriate, the care receiver should be included. Have a list ready of all concerns, including medical, financial and legal issues. It is a good idea to have someone take notes and offer copies for review. This will also be helpful when you meet for future meetings – as you should every month or so – or when there is a radical change in your loved one’s condition.

Health-care workers should be considered an important part of the team. It is such a blessing when you are able to have a courteous relationship with the doctors, nurses, nursing assistants, therapists and pharmacists who contribute their expertise and experience. Mutual respect is a key to working together to facilitate the best care possible for your loved one. You should always feel free to approach these professionals with any questions or concerns.

Reach out to community agencies that assist seniors and allow them to come on board through the wide array of services (often free!) that they make available. You can find a listing of local organizations by going to www.eldercare.govand keying in your zip code.

If you belong to a faith community, do not hesitate to ask your pastor to join your team. Many churches have specific ministries to help meet the needs of caregivers. Some healthcare facilities offer the services of social workers or chaplains. Although “chaplain” originally referred to representatives of the Christian faith, it is now applied to people of other religious or philosophical beliefs such as humanism. Therefore, if you know your loved one would prefer to receive spiritual guidance from someone who shares his personal beliefs, make sure you designate a religious preference.

Sometimes it is necessary to look outside the close-knit circle of families and friends to round out the team. Whether you hire someone to assist with personal care or tidy up the house, make sure they are thoroughly vetted and come to you with glowing recommendations.

Consider enlisting a “second team” of non-immediate family members and friends who can help with tasks from time to time. Keep a list of errands they can do or make a schedule for times they can provide respite care, even if it is just a few hours a month. Many people will be more than happy to oblige, if you just ask. Remember to express gratitude and do not take advantage of anyone’s generosity.

Other caregivers may not have the time and energy to be a part of your team, but they can certainly serve as cheerleaders. Whether you connect at a support group or a chance meeting at the doctor’s office, learning from each other’s victories and defeats will increase your prospects of success.

Pull your team together and then give caregiving your best effort. Both you and your loved one will be the winners!