Staying strong as a caregiver can feel impossible. Whether you are a full time or part time caregiver, the process is both physically and emotionally draining.
We gathered tips from different caregivers and put together the top ten ideas for you to consider.
1) Attend Caregiver Support Group
Caregiver support groups can offer you affirmation, encouragement, and tools for managing the caregiver/family relationship.
AARP Forum Submission
2) Take One Day A Week For You
While this may be impossible, considering finding support so you can manage your own needs and take time to do activities the refuel your tank.
3) Listen To Your Body
Too often caregivers experience exhaustion and even dehydration! Remember that your nutrition, exercise, and medical needs are equally important.
4) Stay Connected with Outside World
Create a social media account or make social activities part of your caregiving routine! Staying connected with the outside world is important for caregiver and patient.
5) Take Responsibility For Your Own Care
Taking responsibility for your own care starts by not missing doctor’s appointments, maintaining an exercise routine, and prioritizing for mental health.
AARP Forum Submission
6) Manage Stress
Take steps to reduce your stress level. Recognize early signs and triggers.
7) Seek Solutions
When you are at a stand still, go to professional for answers. Consult your regular physician, support group, or home care professionals to help you navigate difficult waters. You don’t have to have all the answers.
8) Communicate Constructively
Communicating with a loved one that is struggling with pain, dementia, Alzheimer’s or physical limitation frustrations can be difficult.
9) Ask For and Accept Help
Many caregivers have a routine and process that can be difficult to hand over to someone else. However, getting help goes a long way in achieving balance that is beneficial for both caregiver and patient.
10) Exercise
You don’t have to overthink exercise. Even walking the dog at night can do wonders for your physical and mental health.
AARP Forum Submission
At the end of the day, your caregiving process must be sustainable.
