Posted by Lauren Batalka on Thu, Jan 12, 2012
We found an interesting article from caregiver.com that is helpful for family caregivers and professional caregivers alike! Apply these tips to your everyday life and you might see a difference with your stress levels and overall health.
Twenty Ways To Care for the Caregiver
Twenty of the best tips and ideas collected from Caregivers and care managers of the Medicare Alzheimer's Project in Broward and Dade Counties, Florida.
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Laugh about something everyday.
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Take care of yourself physically.
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Eat a well-balanced diet.
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Talk with someone every day.
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Let family and friends help. Give them printed material on memory disorders so they can better understand your relative. Give them a chance.
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Give yourself permission to have a good cry. Tears aren't a weakness, they reduce tension.
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Exercise. A brisk walk counts.
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Get adequate rest.
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Try a bowl of Cheerios and milk before bed to promote sleep.
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Avoid noisy and/or tension-filled movies at night. The late news itself can add to stress. Skip it.
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Reduce daily caffeine intake.
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Get professional help if you feel your support system isn't adequate or if you feel overwhelmed.
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Take a break very day, even if it's only 10 minutes alone in the backyard.
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Explore community resources and connect yourself with them.
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Listen to music.
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Learn relaxation techniques.
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Regularly attend one or more support groups and education workshops.
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Give yourself a treat at least once a month: an ice cream cone....a new shirt or dress....a night out with friends....a flowering plant.
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Read your Caregiver's Bill of Rights (and Today's Caregiver magazine)
Know your limitations.
Do you need to take a break from caregiving? To learn about respite care, click HERE!