5 Great Self Care Strategies for Caregivers
In this blog, let’s look at a few strategies care givers can focus on for self care
Self Care Tips for Caregivers
Taking care of a senior loved one is a wonderful act of devotion, but can be extremely stressful and challenging for a caregiver. Many caregivers are so focused on meeting the needs of their loved ones, they often neglect to take care of themselves, both physically, and emotionally.
In this blog, we will look at 5 great ways for caregivers to give back to themselves, so they can remain as healthy as possible, and continue to provide the best care for their loved ones.
Realize that You’re Human Too
It is a common personality trait among caregivers to see themselves like a Superman or Superwoman. They naturally put themselves last, in the name of taking care of others.
If you are a caregiver, it is important to realize that you are human too, and need to take care of yourself. As the old expression goes, you can’t give out what you don’t have. Remind yourself daily that you have your own needs that should be met, so you can stay healthy, and able to help others when needed.
Ask for Help
Asking for help can be difficult for some caregivers, but having other people lighten the load can be a great relief. Ask close family members if they are available to assist you by covering a caregiving shift, running errands, or cooking a meal for your loved one.
Even the smallest bit of help can go a long way toward getting you some much-needed relief. Not only will it be good for you to get a break, but your loved one will enjoy seeing other members of the family and close friends too.
Take a Break
Everyone needs some down time, and this is especially true for caregivers. If possible, arrange some time to take a break from your caregiving duties for a few days, or even a week. Family or friends can act as substitutes as you step away for some much-needed rest.
Spend your time away from caregiving responsibilities by doing things you enjoy. This is the best way for you to recharge, and gain a new perspective on your day-to-day life.
If you don’t have family members or friends who can relieve you, speak with a home health agency about the possibility of bringing in a caregiver on a temporary basis.
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Get Enough Rest & Eat Well
One of the most important things for a caregiver to do is get plenty of rest, and eat nutritious food. Poor sleep and eating habits have a cumulative effect of robbing both the body and mind of the energy needed to function effectively.
Take the time to eat nutritious meals, and set a sleep schedule that will provide a good night’s sleep each day. Not only will the quality of your caregiving go up, but you’ll also feel more energetic, and able to perform your duties over the long run.
Seek Help from a Mental Health Professional
Many people have found that working with a mental health professional is a great way to cope with the stress and worry associated with caregiving. Talking about your feelings, concerns, and the effect caregiving has on your own life can lift a lot of weight from your shoulders.
Through this process, you will learn that many caregivers feel the same way you do. This kind of support helps you feel less isolated, and reassured that others are going through the same experience too.
Self Care for Care Givers
Being a caregiver for an aging loved one is an incredibly selfless thing to do. However, the responsibilities that come with it can be stressful and challenging.
By realizing your own limits, asking for help, taking a break when needed, getting enough sleep, and eating nutritious food, you will be in the best position to provide outstanding care for your loved one.
Frontier Senior Living is Here to Help
The compassionate staff at Frontier Senior living has helped many families find the perfect Senior Living Community to meet their loved ones’ unique needs.
If you would like to learn more about our services, we cordially invite you to visit one of our properties, take a tour, and speak with our wonderful staff.
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Washington Gardens Memory Care
9000 Southwest 91st Avenue Tigard, Oregon 97223 (503) 213-6494 Levels of Care:Assisted Living, Memory Care
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201 Northwest 78th Street Vancouver, Washington 98665 (360) 803-4546 Levels of Care:Assisted Living
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8915 Southeast Monterey Avenue Happy Valley, Oregon 97086 (503) 773-6670 Levels of Care:Assisted Living, Memory Care
