As the saying goes, “Sometimes you need to stop chopping trees to sharpen your axe.”
While the intent of this adage is to help people recognize that it’s important to pause from their work in order to either recharge or hone their skills, it is equally-as-relevant to caregivers.
Caregiving can be an emotional rollercoaster and there is often the inclination to forget one’s own needs. Here are five ideas about how caregivers can take care of themselves:
- Ask for and accept help, you cannot do it alone. It can take a village. There are many resources available. Don’t wait until you are exhausted and overwhelmed. Consider your own needs, “put your oxygen mask on first.”
- Information is power. Be proactive, see an elder law attorney, review and discuss finances with a financial advisor; research benefits such as Veteran’s benefits and explore options such as daycare and home assistance.
- Join a support group.
- In addition to talking to your loved one’s physician about the needs of your loved one, talk to your physician about your needs and what is going on with you.
- Manage your stress, exercise, get respite and take time for you.