Family caregivers devote so much of their time and energy to taking care of loved ones that often times their own health may decline. Helping the ones we care about can be rewarding, but it’s also hard work that can sometimes deplete our energy and affect our physical and mental health.
One way caregivers can protect their health is by using respite care or at least using respite time to take regular breaks. Respite care comes in many forms. The most common types are professional in-home care and adult care programs. Most family members are deeply devoted to their loved ones and don’t want to trust their care to anyone else, but caregivers get sick, have surgeries and have other family emergencies too.
Handing off care in these situations is easier if you have a good relationship with an alternate caregiver already in place. Even though you may think that you have everything under control, it’s a good idea to try out a few respite care options and to be prepared. This way, you will have a backup plan in place and know where to go for help.
Sometimes, your loved one may need a break too. If you are tired and stressed, your loved one probably knows and may feel bad about it. Respite time gives you a chance to nap or to get out of the house for a while and gives your loved one a chance to socialize with a fresh face, often a time looked forward to by both of you.
If you allow yourself to be affected by the daily tasks of caregiving without taking time off, you can experience burnout. If you don’t take care of yourself… who else will? Here are a few self-care respite time suggestions:
Schedule time for yourself – meditate, go to the gym, go shopping or maybe just take a walk.
Unplug from technology or social media that can lead to more stress. Schedule your technology time if you have a game or app that helps you to relax.
Take a long bath or shower every day. Besides aiding with “germs” to keep you physically healthy, it’s a “you only” space to decompress, breath and relax…or cry if it’s been one of those days.
“You can’t pour from an empty cup.”
The Veteran’s Administration Caregiver Support Program offers resources for caregivers at 1-855-260-3274. More Information is also available at darkguardian.org on the resource page, "Caregiving” category.
Written by Lori Oneil
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