The noble and selfless task of caring for aging parents or loved ones can be physically and emotionally draining. Adult children often feel overburdened and stressed out as a result of their aging parents’ increased need for attention and help with daily tasks.
A caregiver’s physical and emotional health may be severely impacted by these demands, which can result in depression, anxiety, and burnout. Remember that you are not alone and that obtaining support and help is essential!
This article offers five useful tips and suggestions for reducing stress and getting help when looking after your elderly parents.
Take care of your needs first
It’s easy for a carer to put the needs of the person they are caring for above their own. However, it’s imperative to look after your own physical and emotional needs. Remember what they say during plane emergency exercises? Always put the oxygen mask on yourself before helping others—it works here as well.
Exercise is crucial for preserving good health, lowering stress levels, and boosting your overall happiness. You can feel better both physically and psychologically by engaging in regular exercise. Adopting a healthy diet is especially important for maintaining high energy levels, boosting your immunity, and avoiding getting sick.
While taking care of elderly parents, it’s simple to overlook your own health, but consuming balanced, healthy meals can help you feel better and have more energy. It is also very important to take some time for yourself and not neglect your social life and hobbies.
Don’t hesitate to reach out for help
It’s important to remember that you don’t have to manage everything on your own. Asking for assistance when taking care of aging parents is completely fine and even recommended. Support from friends, family, and neighborhood groups can make a huge difference.
To assist with everyday chores like bathing, dressing, or feeding, consider hiring a professional caregiver. They can be invaluable in preventing feelings of loneliness in both yourself and the person you are caring for.
Stay organized
Taking care of an elderly parent frequently entails scheduling medical appointments, medications, and money management. Being well-organized can help you feel more in control and experience less stress.
Organize your schedule and medications using whichever method works best for you. For example, you can use a planner, calendar, or a to-do list. For essential documents, such as legal documents or medical records, you can also set up a neatly-organized filing system. Mobile apps that remind you to take your medications or online bill payment services can also help you remain well-organized.
To avoid extra stress about safety, providing quality mobility equipment for the elderly can help them move around the home more safely and quickly. Wheelchairs, motorized scooters, and walkers are just some of the choices of practical mobility equipment that boost movement and exercise and give caretakers peace of mind.
Connect with others in the same situation
Connecting with other people going through similar experiences can be invaluable because caregiving can be quite lonely and isolating. For those who are caring for elderly parents, there are numerous support organizations and online communities out there.
Making connections with others can be a great way to find help and support from other people. You can ask for guidance, get many great healthy living tips for seniors, give and receive advice from others who have been in similar circumstances, and you can share your experiences back. Making connections with others can also foster a sense of belonging and lessen feelings of loneliness.
Be gentle with yourself
Giving care to an elderly parent can be mentally taxing, and that can sometimes lead to feeling inadequate or stuck. It’s important to remind yourself that you’re doing your best and to exercise self-compassion.
Allow yourself some space to reflect and express your feelings, and always be kind to yourself. Even though you might make mistakes or feel frustrated, it’s important to not let it get to you. Remember that you’re not alone and that getting support can help you deal with the challenges and difficulties of caregiving.
Both professional and friendly talk can relieve feelings of tension, and allow you to unburden your soul and bare your feelings, so you can return home and feel refreshed.
Wrapping up
Taking care of elderly parents is a demanding job that can be quite tough on your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. You shouldn’t forget that you’re not alone, though, and that getting help and support is crucial. You must prioritize your own needs and ask for assistance when you need it if you want to maintain both your own and your parent’s health and well-being.
© 2023, Mike Johnston. All rights reserved.
