Family caregivers often go through a lot when they are taking care of their elderly loved one. They may deal with criticism from their elderly loved one about how they aren’t helping properly. Their elderly loved one may resist the help they are trying to give. Your elderly loved one might not be able to tell you what is wrong if they have dementia or another health condition. With all that you are going through, it is important that you also take care of yourself. You need some healthy coping tips for dealing with your situation.
Naming the Issue
Naming the issue is one of the best coping tips for family caregivers. You need to learn how to name the issue that you have and then accept the reality of it. For instance, if your elderly loved one was diagnosed with dementia, your issue might be that they are repeating themselves a lot. This is the reality of that disease. Being able to name the issue and then being able to accept it can help you to better cope with what is going on.
Taking Just 5 Minutes
Just take 5 minutes for yourself. If you are caring for your elderly loved one, the day can feel long and exhausting. While your elderly loved one is eating or taking a nap, take just 5 minutes by yourself. You can close your eyes and just breath. You can look out the window and see the world’s beauty. By taking just 5 minutes for yourself, it can help you get through your caregiving shift. It can help you to feel better until the elder care providers take over.
Going for a Walk
Going for a walk for even 10 minutes every day can help you to cope with the situation you are in, as well. If you are able to walk more than that, feel free to do so. However, even 10 minutes of walking a day can help you to clear your mind. It can help you to focus and problem solve. If there is a situation that you can’t seem to figure out with your elderly loved one, a short walk might be able to help you figure out a solution. Not only that, but if you are feeling stressed as a family caregiver, going for a walk can help to relieve that stress.
Being a family caregiver can be tough at times. You might be feeling stressed, overwhelmed, frustrated, and anxious. All of these feelings can weigh you down. However, there are solutions that can help you to cope. With the tips mentioned here today, you can relieve your stress, get control over a situation, find solutions to problems, and cope with the situation you are in. Don’t forget that you aren’t alone. You can have professional caregiver providers take over or help out if needed, as well.
Sources: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/caregiver-stress/art-20044784