We as caregivers know how stressful caregiving can be. It is very important to take care of ourselves in order to be the best caregiver for our loved one that we can be. Here are some important tips to help keep you stress free or atleast reduce your stress.
Follow these tips for caregiver support:
- Eat a balanced diet. This is very important to good long-term health, and it shouldn’t be hard to manage. Chances are the person you’re caring for has been ordered to eat well, and you’re probably preparing and/or sharing many of those meals.
- Get plenty of rest. Try to get eight hours of sleep every night. If you're short on sleep because your caregiver duties require you to be up and down during the night, take naps the following day when you have a chance.
- Exercise regularly. Even a walk around the block will help clear your mind and keep you more feeling refreshed. Regular exercise will give you more energy, reduce your stress, and elevate your mood. Try some strength training, that will help keep your bones and muscles strong.
- Relax. Do relaxation exercises--such as deep breathing or meditating--to reduce caregiver stress. If possible, set aside a few minutes at the beginning and end of your day to practice meditation.
Relaxing in this way will help you start the day more calmly, and make it easier to sleep at night. Also do deep breathing now and then throughout the day to helps keep your stress under control.
- Take a break. Once or twice each week stop being a caregiver for and take some time for yourself. If you do, you'll be happier and better able to care for your loved one.
- See your doctor. Get regular medical check-ups; you need them more than ever now, because you’re managing a lot of extra stress.
Being a caregiver for your loved one is one of the toughest jobs ever. It’s frustrating and terrifying, exhausting and overwhelming, but it is one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do — a supreme act of love.
