Care for the Caregiver

Re-charge your batteries!!!

Practicing self-care allows the caregiver to remain more balanced, focused and effective, which helps everyone involved.

As the saying goes…”If you ain’t healthy, ain’t nobody healthy.”

Self-care tips:

Breathe, exercise, eat well, sleep well, stay socially and spiritually connected, get someone to relieve you as often as possible and/or hire professional caregivers to help you. 

Don’t feel guilty, you need to pamper yourself during this physically and emotionally exhausting journey. If you can’t get away, at least occasionally, make time for a hot fudge sundae, a comedy movie or a hot bath.

Laughter Is A Super Stress Reliever!!!!

Laughter improves overall quality of life, enhances learning abilities, and provides a Wellness Plan for your mind, body and spirit.

Ways To Add Laughter 

• Make a list of things that make you laugh and put in your daily routine!
• Put old comedy and new comedy movies on your calendar: invite friends or family to join you for a fun event!
• Buy a joke or riddle book… share the ones you like or just “crack yourself up” . 
• Encourage your family to share funny stories or jokes with your loved one on the phone or during a visit. 
• Look for humor in serious situations. 

A smile is contagious, be a carrier!!!!!

The Clown Nose

Get a Clown Nose:    Use it over and over!   It brings a smile every time!

When you need a lift, put it on and look in the mirror!

When your loved needs a lift, put it on and casually walk into the room and wait for them to see you!

Caregiver Burn-out

This occurs when repeated caregiver stress causes mental and physical harm.  This can lead to exhaustion, depression, irritability, a weakened immune system, headaches, pain and weight gain. 

Consult your physician, a therapist, or a clergy member.

Lack of self-care: the shocking statistics

Self-care must be a priority!!

According to an Ohio Sate university study: 30% of caregivers die before the person they are caring for.

According to a University of Pittsburg study, elderly caregivers are at a 63% higher risk of mortality than non-givers in the same age group.

Self-care must be a priority!!!!!