7 Tips To Help Caregivers Live Well
As caregivers, we can do a great job of taking care of our loved ones, learning about their diagnoses and even almost jumping through hoops to make sure that our loved ones have the best quality of life. Unfortunately many of us can fail to take the same measures to make sure we maintain healthy and happy lifestyles of our own.
“Your mother may outlive you…..”
are the words given to me by my doctor that set me on the right track to taking a look at how I was living my life as a caregiver. I knew I had to change how I was doing things!
Here are some tips that if put into action, can help caregivers live a better life. Just remember, start small. What tip can you tackle first?
Have a balanced diet.
Having a balanced diet is important for everyone, but it is especially crucial for caregivers. Often times, caregivers forget to eat or they do not have time to prepare healthy meals. This can lead to weight gain, fatigue, and other health problems. It is important to make time for healthy meals, even if it means ordering takeout or eating on the go.
Exercise, make it fun.
Exercise is also crucial for caregivers. With all the stress that comes with caregiving, it is easy to let physical activity fall by the wayside. However, exercise is a great way to reduce stress and improve overall health. Taking a brisk walk, going for a run, or even doing some light yoga can make a world of difference.
Ask for and accept help.
It is also important to ask for help when needed. Caregivers often feel like they have to do everything on their own, but this is not sustainable. Asking for help from friends, family, or even professional caregivers can make a big difference. Always keep a list handy of tasks that people can help with. Keep people in mind who can be available so that you can leave for appointments.
Join a support group.
It is also important to ask for help when needed. Caregivers often feel like they have to do everything on their own, but this is not sustainable. Asking for help from friends, family, or even professional caregivers can make a big difference. Always keep a list handy of tasks that people can help with. Keep people in mind who can be available so that you can leave for appointments.
Make and keep doctor appointments.
It is also crucial to keep up with doctor appointments. This can be difficult to do when caring for someone else, but it is important to make time for your own health. Regular checkups can help catch potential problems early and prevent them from becoming more serious.
Make time for social activities for self and with friends.
Make sure to schedule time for yourself every day, even if it is just a few minutes. This time can be used for anything that brings you joy, such as spending time with friends. It is important to do something for yourself so that you can recharge and be the best caregiver possible.
Schedule respite care.
It is also important to ask for help when needed. Caregivers often feel like they have to do everything on their own, but this is not sustainable. Asking for help from friends, family, or even professional caregivers can make a big difference. Always keep a list handy of tasks that people can help with. Keep people in mind who can be available so that you can leave for appointments.
Disclaimer: The podcast and blog are intended to provide basic information so that you can become a more informed caregiver. The information presented is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not meant to serve as medical advice or replace consultation with any health care providers you regularly engage with. Transmission or receipt of any of this information is not intended to, and does not, create a therapist-patient relationship. This information is not provided in the course of a therapist-patient relationship and is not intended to constitute medical advice or to substitute for obtaining medical advice from a physician or therapist licensed in the state where your family may reside. We encourage everyone to consult with your physician or therapist to see if they are appropriate and safe for you.