End-of-life care can be emotionally and physically draining for family members who assume the role of caregivers, thrust into responsibility for the physical and emotional needs of a dying loved one.

There is a new study funded by the Canadian Institute of Health Research (led by researchers from McMaster and Simon Fraser universities) that aims to determine what is needed to support the needs of family palliative caregivers. (If you are interested in contributing to the research, contact Sarah Paynter at 1-877-932-7610 or e-mail at spaynter@sfu.ca.)

Here are some tips for caregivers:

* Arrange for other family members or friends to help provide care.

* Arrange for alternative care and plan vacations or getaways.

* Get a family member or friend to take on regular responsibilities, such as paying bills, taking your loved one for a daily walk, giving a bath.

* Change your expectations: skip the housework occasionally.

* Meditate or pray.

* Recognize that for some people, nursing homes or assisted-living facilities are the best option.

-- A Guide to End of Life Care

healthandage.com/html/min/gentle_endings/web/index.htm