When looking after an elderly parent or loved one, the amount of responsibility can be stressful. Caregiving can be rewarding, but it is often a big source of stress, on top of work, the kids, and everything else in your life. When you are dealing with a lot of stress, you are more likely to let tasks slip through the cracks. That can be dangerous when you have another’s livelihood in your hands. Here are a few ways that can help cut down on caregiver stress.
Talk to Your Loved One’s Doctor
Often there are many different ways to tackle your loved one’s needs. Talk to your loved one’s doctor about what you could do to make your life easier, while still providing the necessary care. This could be anything from learning a few helpful techniques, or finding out what you are wasting your time and energy on.
Ask For Help When You Need It
Don’t be afraid to ask for a little help now and then. Ask other family members or close friends for assistance when needed. Assistance can come in the form of babysitting your kids when you go to take care of your loved one, or your spouse doing the laundry once or twice a week.
Take Time For Yourself to Reduce Stress
Often, a family member that acts as a caretaker will let their own needs go in order to help their loved one. It is important that you take the time to take care of yourself too. Make sure to allot time for hobbies, sleep, the gym, relationships, etc. Your own physical and mental health are important too.
Hire a Home Healthcare Professional
Hiring a Home Health Aide or Nurse to look over your loved one can be a great way to ensure that your loved one is well taken care of, while reducing your stress. A home healthcare professional can assist your loved one when you can’t. You can improve your loved one’s quality of life while ensuring that you have time to improve yours.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical or healthcare advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for medical advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has been providing excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help the elderly and disabled live safely and independently; while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information contact Safe Harbor by clicking here, or call us at (718)-979-6900.
