Two in five caregivers report feelings of emotional stress. It’s just as important to take care of your mental health as it is to pay attention to your physical health. Chronic stress can negatively impact your day-to-day life, which is why it’s so crucial to find ways to manage stress levels and find relief. Whether you’re working shorter or more lengthy caregiving shifts, make sure to find time to allow yourself to relax and recharge. Below are three tips to relieve caregiver stress
1. Go for a 20-Minute Walk
A leisurely walk outside can be relaxing. Going for a walk has the added benefit of contributing to your daily amount of recommended exercise, which can boost mood and reduce stress levels.
If you’re a family caregiver and need help with your caregiving duties, consider hiring a professional caregiver. One of the most challenging tasks of helping an elderly relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide home care. Turn to Home Care Assistance for reliable, high-quality in-home care for aging adults. We offer 24-hour live-in care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties.
2. Get a Good Night’s Rest
Aim for the recommended eight hours of sleep per night. Getting an adequate amount of high-quality sleep boosts the immune system, enhances mood, and leaves you feeling energized. To get high-quality rest, turn off the television and minimize bright lights or loud noises. Try reading a book or taking a bath before bed so you’re relaxed and ready to rest.
Hiring a professional caregiver can also help you relax and de-stress. If you’re the primary family caregiver for an elderly loved one and need additional assistance providing high-quality home care service, Edmonton Home Care Assistance can help. We are a leading home care agency committed to changing the way seniors age.
3. Put Yourself First
As the old saying goes, you cannot pour from an empty cup. Know your limits and take time to yourself to recharge when needed. If you have a favourite hobby, engage in it once a week to relieve stress. Taking the time to cook a delicious healthy meal, call a friend, or watch a movie can help you relax and focus on what you need.
Remember it’s okay to be selfish sometimes in order to give more of yourself at other times. Finding ways to manage stress is one of the most important steps in caring for a loved one. You can also write down your feelings and frustrations in a journal so you can think creatively about ways to solve problems.
For family caregivers who are experiencing high levels of stress, professional caregivers can provide a much-needed source of support. Caring for a senior loved one can be rewarding, but it can also be overwhelming for family caregivers who have other responsibilities they need to focus on. For these families, the perfect solution is respite care. Edmonton families rely on our caregivers whenever they need time to rest, work, run errands, and even go on vacation. Call Home Care Assistance at (780) 490-7337 to learn more about our flexible and customizable senior care plans.