Listed below are a series of senior care recommendations dealing with caregiver concerns, both physical and emotional.
◊ Do not allow the person in your care to take unfair advantage of you by being overly demanding.
◊ Live one day at a time.
◊ List priorities, decide what to leave undone, and think of ways to streamline the work.
◊ When doing a long, boring task, use the time to relax or listen to music.
◊ Find time for regular exercise to increase your energy (even if you can only stretch in place).
◊ Concentrate on getting relaxed sleep rather than more sleep.
◊ Take several short rests to get adequate sleep.
◊ Set aside time for prayer and reflection.
◊ Practice deep breathing and learn to meditate to empty your mind of all troubles.
◊ Realize your own limitations and accept them.
◊ Claim time for yourself.
◊ Allow your self-esteem to rise because you have discovered hidden skills and talents.
◊ Make sure your goals are realistic – you may be unable to do everything you could before.
◊ Keep your nutrition balanced – do not fall into a “toast and tea” habit.
◊ Treat yourself to a massage.
◊ Keep up with outside friends and activities.
◊ Spread the word that help will be gratefully received and allow friends to help with respite care.
◊ Delegate jobs to others. Keep a list of tasks you need to have done and assign specific ones when people offer to help.
◊ Share your concerns and dilemmas with a friend.
◊ Join a support group, or start one (to share ideas and resources).
◊ Use respite care when needed.
◊ Communicate openly and honestly with people whom you feel should do more to help.
◊ When you visit your own doctor, be sure to explain your caregiving responsibilities, not just your symptoms.
◊ Allow yourself to feel the emotions you feel without guilt. They are natural and very human.
◊ Unload your anger and frustration by writing it down.
◊ Let yourself cry and sob.
◊ Know that you are providing a very important service to someone you love.