Tips to care for yourself as a caregiver

An estimated 53 million Americans are caregivers for family members or friends. These Americans have the difficult task of providing assistance for loved ones, including during difficult times and moments. Finding a way to balance caring for a loved one and caring for oneself can be difficult. Caregivers often have their loved ones' well-being at the forefront of their minds, meaning their well-being is often placed on the back burner. 

How can caregivers care for themselves when they are often stressed, tired, and can be faced with resentment? 

1. Prioritize your basic needs: keep your routine simple and sustainable, get enough sleep, make sure you are eating, stay hydrated 
2. Seek support and services: educate yourself about your loved one's illness, find practical, emotional support, contact your local agency on aging, seek a geriatric care navigator (they can assist with helping to find services, make caregiving plans, and help with medical reimbursements)
3. Therapy: seek a therapist; they can help with coping abilities and point towards support groups 
4. Remember you have a life outside of being a caregiver: connect with aspects of your life that matter to you, block time in your calendar to do things that interest you, use technology to "step away" (connect your loved one with friends or family through video chat so you can take a moment to yourself) 
5. Acknowledge the contradictions of caregiving: tally up the positives, consider what you have gained from the experience (example: 3 things that were challenging and 3 things you are grateful for)

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Being a caregiver is a challenging but rewarding job. Ensuring that our loved ones are getting the care they deserve is essential. However, it can be difficult to prioritize one's care when they are caring for another. It is unrealistic to tell caregivers to take time off to do activities such as yoga, a trip, or get a facial when so much of their energy (mentally, physically, and emotionally) is put towards their loved one. Instead, prioritizing those small everyday basics can go a long way to help caregivers. 

Blog by Norma 
​https://www.nytimes.com/2024/05/16/well/mind/caregiver-health.html