Mom is having a bad day. As you help her get dressed, a ding on your phone notifies you that you’re ten minutes late for her doctor’s appointment. Another notification follows. Your son needs to be picked up from practice. Your mind races. I still need to stop by the pharmacist. Did I ever switch over the laundry? Who’s going to pick up Adam? Does Mom seem worse today?
For 1 in 5 Americans, this is the reality of caring for an aging loved one – juggling appointments, managing your own responsibilities, and trying to prioritize your loved one’s wellbeing amidst the whirlwind of everyday life. If you’re one of the 53 million U.S. adults serving as a family caregiver, know that you’re not alone – and you’re doing better than you think.
Provided by The Mayo Clinic, here are eight ways you can take care of your own physical and emotional wellness while also caring for the person you love.
8 Tips For Managing Caregiver Stress
- Ask for help when you need it. Create a list of tasks that others can help you with. These can include taking regular walks with your loved one, assistance with cooking meals, and help with scheduling appointments.
- Focus on what you can do. There may be days when you feel like you aren’t doing enough – but you’re doing the best you can.
- Set goals you can reach.Break larger tasks down into smaller ones that can be handled one at a time. Create a list of what’s most important, then follow a daily routine.
- Get connected. Open Google and explore caregiver resources in your area. These can include classes, transportation assistance, meal delivery services, or house cleaning.
- Join a support group. Sometimes, just feeling seen can make all the difference. Find a support system that understands your situation and cheers you on through all the wins – big and small. *Click here to find support groups in your area.
- Reconnect with loved ones. Stay connected to family and friends who support you. Make time each week to visit with someone – even if it’s just a walk or a quick cup of coffee.
- Take care of your health. Maintain a healthy diet, stay on top of your routine checkups, and always drink plenty of water!
- Maintain a healthy sleep schedule. Always aim for 7-9 hours with consistent bedtimes and wake-up times.
In Conclusion
It’s never wrong to feel overwhelmed – and it’s never wrong to ask for outside help. If you’re in need of assistance, explore our family resources page, where you’ll find access to articles, guides, and next steps to help you navigate the world of caring for a loved one.
Click here to explore our family resources.