Self-care for caregivers is particularly important during the holiday season.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! However, for the millions of people in the U.S. who care for an aging loved one, the upcoming holidays may feel more like the most stressful time of the year. Finding time for yourself may have been relegated to the very bottom of your to-do list, but the home care team at Endeavor In Home Care would like to challenge you to think again and reprioritize caring for yourself!
Self-care for caregivers allows you to better take care of the aging adults you love. These five simple strategies can help:
Get enough exercise.
Exercise is the original “feel good” treatment and an essential part of self-care for caregivers. It helps you sleep better and wake up feeling refreshed and ready to face another strenuous day. Routine exercise increases both your mental and physical wellness, keeping your mind attentive and body fine-tuned and full of energy.
Eat healthy.
It’s easy to make unhealthy food choices when you’re under stress. When you’re exhausted, it’s more convenient to select whatever is handy: fast food, toast and tea, chips and a soft drink. Your body needs healthy food to perform well.
Take time for yourself.
Regardless of whether you’re caring for a parent, spouse, or other family member or friend, you need time for yourself. You need time to enjoy outside interests, other people, and a way to escape from the constant stress of caregiving. It’s easy to let friendships lag when you have important things to do, but friends can support you through some difficult times, simply by being there. Endeavor’s respite care services can help free up time for self-care during the holidays and throughout the year.
Get plenty of sleep.
This may be easier said than done, especially if you’re providing care for somebody who tends to wander during the evening. Nevertheless, most people need six to eight hours of sleep per night to maintain good health. Catch up with short naps if necessary or call Endeavor In Home Care for evening caregiver support.
Join a support group.
It’s common to feel isolated in your role as a caregiver. That’s why it’s so important to talk to others, particularly other caregivers. They’ll understand what you’re up against; they’ll grasp where you’re coming from, and they might even have some great recommendations to help.
Struggling to make time for self-care as a caregiver? Contact the skilled caregiving experts at Endeavor In Home Care. We can provide the at-home care in Phoenix and the surrounding areas that aging loved ones need while giving you the time you need to get things done.
