Caregiving 101: Keys to Caring for Yourself

Caregiving often creeps up on an individual. You may start by dropping by a parents house and helping with grocery shopping, maybe even taking them to a doctor's appointment. At some point you realize that you have made a commitment to take care of someone else other than yourself.

Caregivers can be spouses, partners, adult children, parents, other relatives or even friends and neighbors. Whatever the relationship with the person you are caring for, it is important to add the title of caregiver to the list of things that you are. If you do not identify yourself as a caregiver, it will be difficult to search for resources that can help you throughout this new role.
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At many times a caregiver is playing other roles as well. You may be employed full or part-time. You may also be married and caring for your children, volunteering or have other family commitments that you cannot let slip behind. Adding caregiver to the list of roles you play can often times be frustrating and exhausting. It is important to remember while you may be a caregiver, you must also continue to take care of yourself. Some things to remember are:

• You cannot be perfect, in fact, noone is.
• Depression is the most common emotion of long-term caregiving.
• Learn about the disease your loved one is battling that way you know what to expect.
• Learn to say NO to the things you cannot do.
• Learn to accept help from others when the help is needed.
• You have the right to all of your emotions.
• Remember the BIG THREE for successful coping:
  • Eat Right - Make sure you intake is good nutrition. Stress snacking is not good for situations like this. You should also limit your alcohol intake.
  • Exercise - While it may be hard to find time, it is the best cure for depression and increases endorphins.
  • Sleep - Getting 7 to 8 hours of sleep is hard enough, but it is essential to staying refreshed and healthy. Be sure to admit when you are expecting caregiver burnout, respite care is an option.

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Above all, remember that taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of someone else.