By Dr. Alexis Abramson
Caregiving is often an unrewarded act that requires unconditional devotion and support. Sometimes we become so involved in the day-to-day efforts of caring for a loved one; we forget we need “care” as well. .
Here are some tips to help you take care of yourself as you care for your loved ones:
- Keep a sense of humor. Make a date with a friend or your spouse to see a favorite comedian or rent a funny movie. Look for humor in everyday situations. Laughing is one of our most effective coping mechanisms, and can be one of your greatest allies against caregiver burnout.
- Take care of yourself…take a break. If you’re like most people you somehow find the time to take care of important people in your life, but in the process, you probably forget to take care of yourself. Taking care of yourself means eating right, getting adequate rest and keeping up with your own medical appointments.
- Be grateful for the time you have together. Many successful caregivers have made it through difficult days by reminding themselves that life is precious and caring for a loved one is a gift. If you’re a caregiver for a loved one, consider that time of “giving” as something to be treasured for the rest of your life.
- Go with the flow. One of the most important qualities of an effective caregiver is flexibility. Being flexible means being able to roll with the punches and understanding that, as a caregiver, you won’t always be able to do the things you plan and want to do at the precise times you plan or want to do them.
- Maintain friendships. Unfortunately many of us put friendships on the back burner while focusing on the more immediate demands of those we are caring for. This is the time in your life when you must say YES when a friend asks if you need to talk or a shoulder to cry on.
- Attend a support group. If you feel overwhelmed with the seemingly never ending responsibilities of caregiving, you can take some comfort in the fact that you’re not alone. There are many other people in the same situation who no doubt share your fears, frustrations and utter exhaustion. By attending a support group you can meet many others caregivers in similar situations and hopefully “learn from and lean on” one another.
ALEXIS ABRAMSON, Ph.D. is cited as America’s leading, impassioned champion for the dignity and independence of those over 50. Abramson is the author of two
highly acclaimed books -- The Caregivers
Survival Handbook and Home Safety for Seniors. For more information go to www.doctoralexis.com.
