Caring for the Caregiver: Coping with Stress
The experience of caring for an aging loved one can be rewarding, but it can also be emotionally overwhelming. Feelings of guilt, anxiety, anger, and grief—all these emotions and more are common for caregivers. Keep reading for some tips on how to cope.
Reset Your Expectations
You may be juggling work, raising children, or attending to other responsibilities alongside caring for your loved one. The biggest gift you can give yourself is permission to be less than perfect. When you feel overwhelmed by stress or anxiety, take a breath and remind yourself that it’s enough to do your best, even when that means occasionally dropping some balls.
Prioritize Self Care
Self care can seem like an unwelcome addition to your task list when you’re busy caregiving. But caring for your body, mind, and soul can help you have more perspective on your caregiving duties and, ultimately, help you be more present to your loved one. Start simply: make sure you’re drinking enough water and getting enough sleep. Consider setting aside 30 minutes each day for an activity that lets your mind rest, like going for a walk or watching your favorite show. Resist the urge to write off your hobbies as unimportant; even a few minutes doing something you love can help you stave off burnout and have some extra energy.
Don’t Go It Alone
Caregivers often find themselves isolated from friends, sometimes due to lack of time; sometimes because it’s hard to share intense emotions with others. Consider pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and opening up to a friend about your caregiving struggles. Even if they haven’t experienced the exact same thing, you may get relief from being heard, without judgment, by someone who loves you. If you can’t open up to a friend, consider searching for a caregiver support group in your area. These groups can be a valuable source of emotional support and practical tips for navigating the caregiving journey.
Explore All Your Options
When it comes to caring for a loved one, sometimes the best laid plans need to be re-imagined. Many seniors hope to age in place at home, and caregivers often feel guilty when illness or memory problems force a change of plans. But sometimes a move can be the right choice for a senior’s safety or a caregiver’s sanity, and a well-run assisted living or memory care residence can help your loved one get needed care and even expand their social circle.
The staff at Mayberry Gardens understands the stress that comes with caring for an aging loved one; contact us to learn how we can help.