La Jolla Senior Care News

Are You The Caregiver of an Aging Loved One? Taking Time for Yourself is Important!

Caregivers Pacific Beach CA: Tips for Staying Healthy and Happy

Caregivers Pacific Beach CA Caregivers often spend so much time caring for loved ones that they forget to take time for themselves. If you are caring for a family member or a loved one, finding time to relax may seem impossible but it’s imperative for your own health and wellbeing.

Those who care for loved ones often have worries and stressors that prevent them from unwinding and having a few moments of peace. If you are a caregiver, you may be able to relate to some of these issues.

  • If you aren’t with your loved one, something might go wrong and you won’t be there to help. What happens if you mother gets hurt? What if your dad has a medical emergency while you’re out of town? Many caregivers find it difficult to not stress or worry about their loved ones when they aren’t with them. It’s at these times they find it very beneficial to reduce senior care stress by hiring some home care to help them out.
  • You have been taking care of your loved one for so long that you don’t trust another person to do it. If you have been the primary caregiver for your parent, you probably know all of their wants and needs before they do. How can you trust someone new to take good care of your loved one?
  • It’s hard to enjoy yourself when you know your parent or loved one needs assistance. Even if you have other people to help care for your loved one, you may feel guilty about having fun or enjoying other activities when they can’t.

If you struggle with any of these thoughts and emotions, you are not alone. It’s normal to sometimes feel distrustful, worried, or guilty but it’s important to learn how to care for and take time for yourself.

  • Learn how to ask for help. Reach out to other family members, just because they weren’t able to help last month doesn’t mean they can’t help today. While they may not be able to be there every day, they might be able to help once a week or do the grocery shopping.
  • Remember that your health, wants and needs, and dreams matter. You may be so used to caring for your loved one you don’t remember to take care of your own needs. Make the decision to take time for yourself and know that what you want matters just as much as what your loved one needs. If you aren’t healthy and happy this can affect your overall wellbeing.
  • When you have a day to yourself or a few hour break, do something you really enjoy. Read a book, go shopping, or get a massage.

Being a caregiver for a family member can often lead to high levels of stress and worry. Take time to relax and take care of yourself. It will be easier and more rewarding to care for a loved one when you feel healthy and happy.

For more information about how the caregivers at La Jolla Nurses Homecare can help your aging parents get to their annual appointments, call 858-454-9339. We are a home care agency providing quality and affordable elderly care services in La Costa, CA, and the surrounding communities.

Brittnei Salerno

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