As a caregiver for a senior relative, it is possible that there are many demands put upon you. Even if you do not complain or feel as if you are fatigued, it is important to recognize the need to take care of yourself. Aside from standard care including physical and emotional care, you need to make sure that you make time for your own relationships. This can help your mental wellbeing just as much as it can help your senior relative.
Communicate – Even if you find that you cannot leave your senior alone, you can still make time for communication with family and friends. Technology makes it possible to communicate in a variety of ways, no matter where you are. There is no replacement for a good phone conversation with a close friend, but if time does not allow for that, at least make time for emails, social media updates or at the very least text messages to allow an outlet for your feelings and emotions.
Visit – Whether you are able to leave the home or not, you can still have time for a meal or even just coffee with a friend. Inviting a close friend or family member over to your home or your relative’s home is good for both of you. It could give you time to focus on other things that are going on in the world as well as give your relative someone else to talk to.
Get Help – Caregiving does not have to be a responsibility for only one person. If you are the sole provider in your family, it is recommended that you get help for yourself. In order for you to provide the care that you want to be able to give your relative, you need to make time for yourself. The best way to do this is to hire a reputable professional that provides in-home care to give you the break that you need every so often.
