Self-Care Activities for Family Caregivers
Updated: Nov 28, 2021
Activities for Family Caregivers to Engage in for Their Own Well-Being
Middle-aged women have it tough some times. We are super busy taking care of kids, parents, pets, volunteering for charities, and handling our careers. We door a poor job of taking care of ourselves.
Anywhere from 40 to 70 percent of caregivers have signs of depression, while about 25 percent meet the criteria for major depression. Often, self-care can make a difference in the battle against depression, making it particularly essential for family caregivers.
While caregiving for a loved one can often be a 24/7 job, that doesn’t mean it isn’t possible to make time for self-care. If you’re looking for simple self-care activities for family caregivers that can fit into even the busiest of schedules, here are some worth considering.
Deep Breathing Exercises
When it comes to versatile stress-relieving options that you can do at any time regardless of where you are, it’s hard to beat deep breathing exercises. They’re straightforward, discrete, and require no extra equipment or space. Plus, they can be incredibly effective at reducing tension and recentering, leaving you feeling grounded and rejuvenated.
One yoga technique that is modifiable into a simple deep breathing exercise is the lion’s breath. You could also try the 4-7-8 or a similar cyclic approach.
Make Sleep a Priority
A lack of sleep makes stress levels harder to manage. Additionally, it can be harmful to the body and mind, leaving you physically, mentally, and emotionally fatigued.
Generally speaking, adults take 5 to 20 minutes to actually doze off, so factor that in when you plan your bedtime. Then, make sure you schedule in 7 to 9 hours for sleeping each night, giving your body enough time to complete critical processes, ensuring you’re in the best shape possible during the day.
Seize Opportunities to Socialize
Socializing with friends and family members can be an excellent form of self-care. It can reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, something that many caregivers deal with regularly. Plus, it can help you combat stress and stave off depression, increasing your ability to navigate new challenges.
With family members, consider inviting more than one over while you’re caring for your loved one. They can each take turns spending time with their aging relative, giving them one-on-one time together. Plus, you can socialize with one of the other visitors during that time, giving you a bit of a mental break.
For friends, consider video calls when the opportunity arises. It’ll let you converse face-to-face even if you can’t actually get together, making the experience a bit more meaningful than a typical phone call.
Join a Support Group
Sometimes, speaking with others who’ve been in your shoes makes a world of difference. If you’re struggling, consider joining a family caregiver support group. You’ll be able to discuss your stresses with people who understand your position. Plus, you may end up learning some helpful tips that can make caring for your loved one easier, reducing your stress.
It’s also a good idea to join a fitness group like SwimBikeRun Fun, especially if you’re looking to live healthier and cultivate a more active lifestyle. Join our online tribe to be updated on upcoming events!
Hire Help When You Need It
One of the simplest ways to make more time for self-care is hiring help when the need arises. You’ll be able to delegate tasks to experts, ensuring the chores are done quickly, efficiently, and correctly.
If you aren’t sure where to begin, a lawn fertilization service is an excellent choice. Fertilization makes maintaining a beautiful lawn easier. Plus, by hiring professionals, you won’t have to mess with any of the fertilizer personally.
Before you get quotes, search for ‘lawn fertilization near me’ and check out company reviews online. That way, you can find reputable businesses fast, narrowing down your list of options. Additionally, if you’re concerned about cost, focus on companies offering deals or credits. Then, reach out to discuss your needs and arrange for a quote.
Guest Post Contribution
Harry Cline | newcaregiver.org
The New Caregiver’s Comprehensive Resource: Advice, Tips, and Solutions from Around the Web