An AARP survey found that 33 percent of caregivers feel their stress levels are high. Half of all family caregivers polled said they have little time for friends and family as a result of the care they offer. Providing family care is a true act of kindness and devotion, but you cannot let it negatively affect your own life.
Make sure you do not lose focus on your own needs. You need socialization for your mental and physical well-being. You need to follow a healthy diet and get plenty of exercise. If you’re failing to do that, you could easily burn out or have a health incident. If that happens, who provides care to your aging parent then?
Eat Well
When caring for your mom or dad, it’s important that you eat well. It may be tempting to grab a burger and fries as you drive home, but it’s unhealthy. While you’re making meals for your parent, make extra for yourself.
Your diet should include whole grains, lots of fresh vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins. For a quick and easy salad that you and your mom will love, grill or roast half a napa cabbage and let it cool. Slice the cabbage into thin slices and break apart. Toss with sesame oil, cooked shrimp or chicken, shredded cabbage, green onions, avocado, and lime juice.
Join Your Mom or Dad for Yoga or Tai Chi
Yoga and Tai Chi are two exercise programs that pair relaxation techniques with toning muscles and improving balance. Join your mom or dad in regular classes. The relaxation techniques will come in handy on stressful days.
This is one way to get the 30 minutes of exercise that’s recommended every day. Pair the classes with walks around the block, swimming, or bicycling. Go alone if you want or bring your parent. You could take an outing once a week to walk on a local beach or nature path. On rainy days, some shopping malls open early for people who want to walk laps.
Arrange Respite Care
Make sure you get to take breaks. Go out on a Friday night with your friends. While you’re out socializing, arrange respite care from a local elder care agency. Caregivers can take over for a few hours.
As your parent gets to know the new caregiver, you may find your parent asking for more breaks. While providing elder care is understandably stressful, it’s also hard on your elderly parent. They don’t like relying on their children for showering, grooming, and other personal tasks. A caregiver gives you both a refreshing change of pace.
IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE ARE CONSIDERING ELDER CARE IN LAS VEGAS, NV, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT GOLDEN HEART SENIOR CARE. CALL TODAY 702-800-4616.