Self-care for family caregivers is vitally important, and these tips can help you make time for you during the busy holiday season.
It’s the most merry and bright time of the year! However, if you’re one of the millions of people in the U.S. who is caring for an older loved one, the approaching holiday season may feel more like the most stress-filled time of the year. Carving out time for self-care for family caregivers is often relegated to the very bottom of the to-do list, but the home care professionals at Advanced Home Health Care would like to challenge you to reconsider and reprioritize your self-care!
Taking care of yourself permits you to take better care of your senior family member. These five simple recommendations for self-care for family caregivers can help:
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Eat healthy
When you’re really stressed out, you may be inclined to make unhealthy food choices. Fatigue makes it easy to choose whatever is handy; quick snack foods, tea and toast, cheese doodles and a soft drink. You need high quality food to perform well.
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Exercise regularly
Exercise is the original “feel good” elixir. It helps you sleep better and wake up rested and ready to face another strenuous day. Regular exercise improves both your emotional and physical wellness, keeping your mind attentive and body fine-tuned and full of energy.
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Get a sufficient amount of sleep
This may be easier said than done, particularly if you’re providing care for someone who has a tendency to wander during the night. Nevertheless, most people require six to eight hours of sleep per night to maintain good health. Catch up with short naps if necessary or call Advanced Home Health Care’s experts in senior care and memory care in Mt. Pleasant and the nearby areas for evening caregiver support.
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Take time out for yourself
Whether you’re providing care for a parent, spouse, or other relative or friend, you need to set aside time for yourself. You need outside interests, other people, and a means to take a break from the continual strain of caregiving. It’s easy to let friendships lag when you have important things to do, but friends can support you through some challenging times, simply by being there. Advanced Home Health Care’s respite care services can help family members take the break they need during the holiday season and all through the year.
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Join a support group
It’s very common to feel isolated in your role as a caregiver. That’s why it’s crucial to talk to others, specifically other caregivers. They will know what you’re up against, they will grasp where you’re coming from, and they might even have some great tips.
Need some time to take care of your holiday shopping list? Contact the professional caregivers at Advanced Home Health Care, a trusted provider of home care and memory care in Mt. Pleasant and throughout the surrounding areas. We can provide the care and attention your loved one needs while giving you the time you need to gain peace of mind.
