Coping Tips for Senior Caregivers
As a senior caregiver, your mental, emotional, and physical health must always be a priority. If you are not in top condition, you will not be able to provide the quality of care your loved one needs. Every person deals with stress in different ways. It’s up to you to find the coping skills that will allow you to be your best at all times.
Write Things Down
Much of our stress comes from trying to do too many things at one time. Instead of rushing around and trying to remember everything, have a small pad of paper and pencil handy. When you start to get overwhelmed, start to write things down. This way you are less likely to forget what you have to do or what is on your schedule for the next day.
Take a Break When You Need One
There are going to be days when it doesn’t seem like you have five minutes to yourself. That’s the way it is sometimes when you are caring for a family member. It’s important for your self-care that you take a break when you feel that you need one. Short breaks will give you a chance to take a deep breath and get back on track. It’s also important to take longer breaks when you need them. Don’t be afraid to ask for a day or two off so you can get away and just relax.
Accept Yourself and Your Limitations
Know yourself and what your limitations are and accept them. Trying to do too much can leave you feeling depressed and alone. Have someone you can rely on to take over for you, even if it is just for a few hours. If your loved one has a medical condition that requires specific types of care, admit that you may not be able to perform certain tasks. As you get older, you may not be able to do some of the physical tasks as well. Accept your limitations and be true to yourself.
Deal with Stressful Situations As They Happen
Instead of putting off stressful activities or dealing with stressful situations, face them head-on. The sooner you deal with them, the less you will have to worry about in the future. Even if you cannot completely solve a problem as soon as it arises, you can take the necessary steps to keep things moving forward.
Practice Deep Breathing
Practice deep breathing to keep your head clear and focused on the tasks at hand. You can take a few deep breaths any time you start to feel stressed. It will keep the fog away as you deal with stressful situations. Deep breathing will also help you to relax at the end of the day and fall asleep much faster.
Focus on Positivity
Above all, be positive! Focus on positivity in everything you do! The more positive you are, the more relaxed the atmosphere will be. Your loved one can sense tension and frustration. Being calm and collected will help you keep a smile on your face and make happy memories with your loved on.
If you are a caregiver for a senior loved one, take a few minutes every day and practice your coping skills. You will feel better and your loved ones will be able to enjoy the quality time they get to spend with you! Caring for your loved one is important, but caring for yourself is a priority as well. If you need help caring for your loved one, give us a call at Park Central. We have different living and caregiving options available to help take care of them like family.
