Tips for Caregivers

Here are some ways to avoid caretaker burnout:

Exercise. Even if you do not have time for a formal workout, incorporate exercise into your daily routine. For example, take a walk around the doctor's office or hospital grounds during your loved one's appointment.

Eat properly. Many times caregivers are so absorbed in preparing meals for their loved ones they neglect their own nutritional needs.

Keep your doctor appointments. Most caregivers ignore their own health needs in favor of their aging loved one's needs. But if you get sick, who will care for your loved one?

Keep a journal or diary. By keeping track of what you are going through and how you are feeling, you can better evaluate whether the situation is improving or worsening over time.

Read. Reading for pleasure or even for information can be a wonderful outlet for stress and anxiety.

Pursue hobbies. Don't lose touch with the things that gave you pleasure before your loved one became ill. Whether it is gardening, music, or art classes, continue to do what brings you joy, even if it is less frequent than before.

Blow off steam. Go to the movies, go to dinner, have fun, see friends, play games. It's okay to escape and not focus all your energy on your loved one's illness. Social support may even help you stay healthy.

Accept the help others offer. Trust in their willingness to help. It's ok to accept their help and have some time for yourself. Suggest specific things they can do.

Tap into your support network. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Many people want to help, but don't know what to offer. Ask friends, relatives, neighbors, co-workers, or people in your church or synagogue to help you with some tasks. Be sure to let them help with what they feel best doing.

Join a caregiver's support group. There are many community resources that can offer you extra help and time away. Religious organizations also often offer help and support.

Practice relaxation techniques. Whether it's yoga, progressive muscle relaxation, visual imagery or deep breathing, anyone can incorporate these skills into their daily lives. Many stress management workshops and books are readily available.

Get a massage. Many caregivers feel guilty spending any money on personal needs. Getting a massage may not be that expensive, though. Massage schools often have low-cost student clinics.

Get professional help. Because caregiving is emotionally draining, caregivers have a high rate of depression. Adult day services can reduce caregiver stress when you use the services early in the caregiving process. For a break, respite care can be provided in the home, in an adult day center, or in a nursing home or assisted living facility. If you are caring for a person with disabilities, it can be physically demanding. Consider help from private and voluntary agencies.

Caring for a loved one can provide emotional rewards, but it can also take a toll, forcing you to make compromises and sacrifices. As you take care of the one you love, make sure you take care of yourself as well.