Self-Care for Caregivers: 5 Important Strategies
As a caregiver, you have a challenging job: taking care of another person, often an aging individual whose personal capabilities have decreased over time. While your focus is on providing them with quality care, self-care for caregivers is also important. A caregiver who takes time for self-care is often better able to take care of the individuals they're responsible for. Try adding these routines and habits to your self-care arsenal.
1. Prioritize healthy eating habits.
As a caregiver, you may ensure that the senior you care for receives healthy, nutritious meals, but are you taking the time to properly fuel your own body? When you allow yourself to get by primarily on junk food, fast food, or highly processed alternatives that you can grab in a hurry during your shift, you may find yourself feeling slow, sluggish, and less able to take on the challenges in front of you. Instead, prioritize healthy eating in your own life. Take the time to meal prep at the beginning of the week or spend a little extra time preparing your meals during the day. You may be surprised by the difference this simple step can make in your energy levels.
2. Disconnect periodically.
If you're caring for a senior loved one, especially if you live with them, getting away can pose a difficult challenge. Even as an employee, however, you may struggle to completely disconnect from your job, especially if you are primarily responsible for one senior. Periodically, take the time to disconnect. Get away from the job and the responsibilities associated with it. Go on regular vacations. When needed, call in someone else to act as a caregiver. When you're able to disconnect for a little while, you'll find that you return with more energy, better prepared to take care of those caregiving responsibilities. When you aren't with your senior, try to disconnect as much as possible. Avoid running errands for them, including making phone calls, during your time off. Self-care for caregivers means you deserve time for you, too!
3. Make time to exercise.
Sure, your day is full, busy, and packed with responsibilities. Finding even twenty minutes for a walk around the block can feel like an incredible challenge, especially if you aren't used to doing it. By making time for exercise, however, you will decrease your stress levels and increase your overall health and energy levels, which can make it easier for you to take on your caregiving tasks.
4. Schedule time for you.
What is it that makes you feel relaxed and happy? Is it time with friends? A few hours with a good book? At least once a week, set aside several hours for an activity that you really enjoy. Give yourself permission to be relaxed and refreshed. Focus on nothing but that time you need. Then, when you do return to your caregiving responsibilities, you may find that you're in a better position to take care of them.
5. Take a time out when you need it.
Some seniors require more care and intervention than others. A patient with Alzheimer's or dementia or one whose personality simply doesn't mesh with yours can create an added element of difficulty, leaving you feeling overwhelmed. When needed, take a time out. Walk around the house or simply take a few minutes to breathe. That quick time out can go a long way toward making you feel better prepared to handle your responsibilities as a caregiver.
Do you want to work for a company that focuses on ensuring care for our workers as well as care for the seniors who use our services? Contact us today to learn more about the benefits Elite Home Health Care can offer our employees.
