Caregivers have a large impact on the health of the elderly
they care for and the eventual outcome of the care. Caring for our loved ones can
be overwhelming, as it becomes such an integral part of our focus. We feel
exhausted and sometimes resentful when it begins to take over our lives. When caregivers
stress over their loved one’s care, it puts pressure on their own health.
We forget to take time for ourselves to decompress. Maintaining
your health and sanity is essential to moving forward. Slow down and partake in
something rare as a caregiver…...living in the moment.
Take a break and spend a day just for you. Relax, take in a
movie, or find a local coffee house to sit and sip your favorite cup of coffee
or tea and read a magazine or your favorite book. Using other family members or
friends, helps reduce stress. You cannot do this alone and you need to ask for help.
Remember, it is important to connect with others via support groups, online
conversations, newsletters, blogs, and family groups’ events. You are not
alone.
If you know a caregiver, offering an outlet to caregivers to
express themselves is productive for both the caregiver and the elder. They need
liberation from the daily pressures. Having the support and understanding to
help with the daily stress that come with this new role is important in
keeping one’s sanity.
