Respite Care - When Caring for a Loved One, Remember to Take Care of Yourself

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Jan 26, 2012

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Utah - Utah

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If you've taken on the caregiver role for a senior or someone with a chronic illness or disability, chances are you have experienced more than your share of fatigue, frustration, loneliness and stress. Few of us expect to add caregiving to an already challenging list of family and professional responsibilities. But if the task falls on you and the strain of caregiving threatens to throw your hectic life off balance, take a tip or two from those who have walked in your shoes.
Get all the help you can. Seek or accept help from family members, friends, neighbors, volunteers from your community or church group, paid caregivers or a geriatric care manager.
Safeguard your physical and mental health. Many caregivers take minimal time to care for themselves, not allowing time to exercise, rest or to eat regular meals. Exhaustion can compromise your body's immune system and lead to illness. Surprisingly, the primary reason many seniors are moved from the comfort of their own home into an institutional setting is the decline in health of the caregiver, not the patient. Its important to eat well, get enough sleep, see your doctor regularly and take time for yourself in order to stay healthy, keep your loved ones healthy and avoid burnout.
Make time for yourself. Schedule respite times when you can attend to your needs and pursue your interests. Exercise, shop, read or enjoy yourself with friends and other family members - engaging in whatever activities you find most fulfilling and relaxing. Either through finding activities your loved ones are interested in or by having someone else come in to provide you some relief, making time for yourself is an important element in maintaining your physical and mental well-being.
Consider connecting with other caregivers. Communicating with people who share your challenges can be a relief. Contact your local senior center, hospital, or homecare agency to learn about caregiver support groups in your area or connect with fellow caregivers.
As with other priorities in your life, the responsibility of caring for yourself comes down to you. Even small steps toward positive change can reap significant benefits.
Editors Note: This article was submitted by Elizabeth Squires of ResCare Home Care. She may be reached at (801) 288-4100 or by email at esquires@rescare.com. Visit their website at www.rescare.com

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