4 Essential Self-Care Tips for Family Caregivers

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Providing home care to a senior loved one can be overwhelming at times. As a result, it’s essential for family caregivers to also care for themselves. The following tips can help you focus on your own health and wellbeing so you can provide your loved one with the best care possible. 

 

1. Take Time Off

It’s important to set aside some time for yourself away from your caregiving duties, even if it’s only for a few hours a week. You can hire a professional caregiver to provide respite care whenever you need a break, and you can also ask other family members or friends to take your place occasionally. 

Family caregivers need to care for their own wellbeing. If you’re caring for an aging loved one and are feeling overwhelmed, consider hiring a professional caregiver to provide respite care. Westminster families who want to prevent burnout can turn to Assisting Hands Home Care. One of our professional caregivers can assist your loved one at home while you take a nap, go to work, run errands, or go on vacation.

 

2. Get Plenty of Rest

People often neglect sleep when they feel busy, but lost sleep can have a negative impact on your health. Stick with a consistent bedtime and waking time if possible. If you’re spending most or all of your nights with your loved one, try to get overnight assistance a few days a week so you can rest and get the sleep you need to feel refreshed in the morning. 

When researching agencies that provide at-home care, families are usually looking for flexible care plans, compassionate and highly trained caregivers, and 24/7 availability. Whether you need respite care to take a break from your caregiving duties or your senior loved one needs around-the-clock assistance at home, you can rely on Assisting Hands Home Care.

 

3. Eat Well

It’s no secret that eating healthy meals can make you feel better. However, cooking for your loved one can boost his or her health as well. Always check with a doctor before making any changes to your diet, but a menu rich in fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains may provide the energy and alertness you need. 

 

4. Exercise Regularly

Mental exhaustion can easily occur when you’re responsible for the care of a senior loved one. However, exercise can be rejuvenating. Even if you just take a daily walk, exercising frequently can do great things for your body and mind, allowing you to focus on the care you’re providing for your loved one. 

Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted Westminster home care provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Assisting Hands Home Care Westminster is here to help. If you need professional care for your loved one, reach out to one of our Care Managers today.