As a caregiver, it’s easy to feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. Not only do you take on the enormous responsibility of caring for others, but you also understand the needs of those who depend on your attention and company. You are the one who knows their daily routines and preferences, how they take their tea and just the right temperature for their meals. As such, it can be difficult to step away and make time for yourself. But not only is it necessary for your own health, doing so can make you more engaged and a better caregiver.
Caregivers need care too
Why is this so important? Research shows us that chronic stress, unchecked, can lead to health problems such as anxiety, depression and even heart disease. But not if you stay ahead of it. Stress management has a new name these days – Self-Care – and despite its luxurious title, it can provide scientifically grounded benefits – that help renew and recharge even the most exhausted caregiver.
Self-care is about you, not others
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially these days. Set aside time just for you. Maybe it’s a weekly walk with a friend or a favorite show that helps you escape. Even taking a few moments to sit down with a simple cup of tea and a magazine can be self-care if it helps you to relax and change your mindset. Making space for this time sometimes means you’ll have to say no to others or change a few things around in your schedule. But if you feel the stress and anxiety of work obligations and other have-to creeping up on you, it’s time to make a plan.
Self-care involves making a plan
Prioritize your own health. Set a goal to establish a solid sleep routine and to exercise a certain number of days each week. Try the more is more approach when it comes to food. Instead of restricting certain “off-limits” foods, consider adding in more fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet, potentially leaving less room for unhealthy alternatives.
Self-care means asking for help sometimes
Caregivers are real-life superheroes. Even though you do so much for others, one person can’t possibly do it all, at least not for the long run. Eventually, life gets in the way – the well runs dry or the train comes off the track – and it’s time to ask for support.
- Embrace the comfort of a support group. When it comes to professional caregiving, you are never alone. If you feel overwhelmed by your stress, connecting with other caregivers can help you feel less alone. Caregiver support groups abound across Facebook, and in-person or virtual groups are available through local hospitals and organizations.
- Consider respite care. Respite care can take on many forms, depending upon your situation, and who you care for. Many senior living communities offer on-site respite care programs, while professional in-home help or adult day care may give you the break you need. Consider the Access to Respite Care and Help (ARCH) National Respite Network and Resource Center's National Respite Locator, which can help you find adult daycare centers and home care services in your area.
Tap into tech
Streamline internal communication with technology. CaringBridge, PostHope or MyLife Line let you post updates for family members and friends using their platforms so you don’t have to worry about texting the right people or writing notes which may be lost or misinterpreted once your shift is over.
And when your shift is over, consider a daily relaxation or meditation practice. While the idea of meditation may seem too time-consuming, many smartphones offer apps to help you decompress in just 5 minutes a day, allowing you to practice in your car, your break room, or truly anywhere. Check out Calm, Headspace or the simple Apple Breathe app, which reminds you to pause and practice deep breathing techniques several times throughout the day. Finding a few minutes to reset your mind can help you cope in stressful times.
Senior Star has put together the helpful guide, Self-Care for the Caregiver, that you can download by clicking below.
