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Can You Really Balance Everything as a Caregiver? 

August 23, 2018
Linda Kunicki
Caregiving is all about balancing your senior's needs with everything else that needs to be done. It's not always easy, but there are some steps you can take to make balance more possible.

Look for Where You Need an Extra Hand

Balance does not mean that you're handling everything perfectly on your own. Balance means that you're doing what you can in the best way possible and you're accepting help where you need it. Look for ways to accept help and to add resources for yourself where you need them the most. One of the easiest ways to do this can be by simply hiring elder care providers. 

Pay Attention to What and When You're Eating

If you're not fueling yourself properly, you're not going to be able to keep everything in the air. When you're not eating properly, your energy levels are erratic and you may find that you just can't even think straight. Start assessing what you eat and when you eat it and look for ways to make small changes toward healthier options.

Move More Often, Even if You Exercise Now

Even if you're exercising already, there may be room for you to move a little more. You might add a session of stretches to your morning routine. Or you might add an after-dinner walk to your day. Exercise helps your body to manage stress and it ensures that you're strong and capable when you need to be. It can also help you to sleep better.

Assess Whether it's Time to Quit Smoking or Other Vices

Lots of people smoke or drink alcohol and that's a personal decision. But if you're finding that these activities make it more difficult for you to be a caregiver, it might be time to phase them out of your life. These are truly addictive habits, so if you find this more difficult than you expect, your doctor may be able to help.

Get Plenty of Sleep

Sleep is when your brain and body recharge and repair themselves. If you're not getting enough sleep or you're tired even after sleeping for a full night, you might have other health issues going on. Talk to your doctor to rule any medical causes out. If your sleep deficit is because you're just not giving yourself time for sleeping, you need to prioritize sleep.

Maintaining balance doesn't have to be difficult as a caregiver. Look for all the ways that you can take care of yourself and make sure you're implementing them. From there, you'll be in better shape to care for others.

IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE ARE CONSIDERING CAREGIVERS IN BERWYN, IL, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT BRIGHTSTAR CARE LA GRANGE. CALL TODAY: 708-551-2500.