As a caregiver for your elderly family member, it is easy to become overwhelmed with your duties and consequently, fail to care for your own physical and emotional needs. You may think that you do not have the time to focus on yourself. You might feel a burden weighing heavily on your shoulders from the sheer volume of demands on your time and energy. Often, others that you meet and talk with are quick to see how your senior is doing, but when was the last time someone asked you how you were doing? To be the best possible caregiver you need to be, take a long, careful look at your needs. Once you are refreshed, you will enable yourself to become a better daughter, son, wife, husband, or friend. Suggestions to Give Yourself the Care You Need Avoid burnout when you put these suggestions into practice:
  1. Ask for help. You do not have to continue wearing that big “S” on your chest. Even Superman had his kryptonite! Go ahead and ask for help. You never know just who might want to step up and help if only given an opportunity.
  2. Accept help when it is offered. If someone offers a helping hand, take it. Now is a great time to delegate those tasks you just never seem to get around to completing.
  3. Stay engaged with friends. Take time to reconnect with friends over lunch. Go shopping or spend time talking on the phone. This season in life will not last forever, so try not to lose your identity while you are in it.
  4. Make a date with yourself. Remember bubble baths? Sneaking one in is good; despite your busy schedule as a caregiver. Spend some time reading a book. Get a manicure or pedicure. Make sure to schedule it on your calendar like you would any other important appointment.
  5. Keep up with your health. Make your health a priority by staying up with your preventative health checks. Schedule those doctor, dentist, and optometrist appointments, and keep them.
  6. Find support. Join a support group to help you stay the course and get inspired during this time of serving your elders.
  7. Get respite care. Look for options for someone else to come in and care for your elderly loved one. Maybe it is time for your senior to move to a continuing care retirement community.
Be the best you can be in your caregiver duties when you make some time for yourself. At Wesley Enhanced Living, we help retirees and families during this transitional time. Contact one of our several Philadelphia area locations and find out how we can assist you or your loved one. Our staff will be glad to discuss your elder’s needs, give you a tour, and educate you on all our services. Wesley Enhanced Living provides high-quality retirement communities for you or your elderly loved ones. Please visit our care communities to learn more or click here to request more information today.