While It May Be The “Lazy Days Of Summer,” Caregivers Don’t Often Get That Kind Of Break, R.E.C.H.A.R.G.E.

Effective caregiving begins with you! Taking care of yourself is just as important as the
support you provide to your loved one. Follow these tips to recharge!

Rest – One of the most important things you can do for the person you are caring for is to
take care of yourself. If you wear yourself out going 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, you risk
burning out.

Eat Right – Eat healthy as often as possible. You don’t have to follow a strict diet, but
eating a well-balanced diet keeps you healthy and increases your energy level.

Communicate Your Needs to Others – Don’t expect anyone, even other family
members, to read your mind about what you need or what your loved one needs. Let
people around you know the things that need to be done and that occasionally you can
use a hand.

Hydrate – Drink lots of water. Water hydrates your body and keeps you energized. Take
vitamins if you don’t get enough nutrition from your food.

Accept Help – This can be one of the hardest things to do, but it’s one of the best
things you can do for your loved one and for yourself. When people offer to help, often
caregivers turn them down because they don’t want to burden them. You don’t have to do
everything yourself. When you have a few moments, really think about what kind of help
you need. Then you’ll be ready to accept the next offer! When you tell someone something
very specific, they’re more comfortable doing it, and you’ll get the help you need.

Respite – Make a point of getting away for a mini-respite. A movie, lunch out, window
shopping or just walking along the beach or through a park can be enough to get some
distance, and come back with a fresh perspective on things.

Get Enough Sleep – This is often hard to manage because you’re on someone else’s
schedule. Sleep is one of the best things you can do for yourself. Eight hours are ideal, but
getting eight uninterrupted hours of sleep might be impossible. Get what you can in one
shot, but take a nap during the day. A short nap can be very refreshing and just the thing
you need to get you through the day.

Exercise – Anything will help. Walk around the block a few times a day when you have
a few spare minutes. Try yoga, something that will exercise your muscles, yet relax your
mind. Meditate. Spend a few quiet minutes alone.

Source:  Commonwealth Care Alliance