|
St. Andrew's At Home Services For Seniors
Caregiver Services
Support Services for Seniors
Specialty Services for Seniors
|
Speakers
Bureau | Select
Provider Network | Client
Voices | Gift Certificates
Caring
Workplace | Volunteer
Opportunities | Charitable Fund
Eldercare
& Caregiver Resources |
About
Us |
Awards
At Home
Services Home Page
St. Andrew's At Home
Services:
Caregiver Services:
Caregiver
Stress
Acknowledge that caring for an
older adult is stressful
The first step in dealing with the stressfulness of caregiving is
acknowledging that it is stressful. Even if the elder is 500 miles away
and you’re trying to make all the arrangements over the telephone,
caregiving is a significant burden – and one that can be a long-term
proposition.
Here are a few tips to help keep your caregiving stress at a minimum:
-
Eat three balanced meals per day, including breakfast. Learn to
prepare simple meals that center around whole grains and fresh fruits
and vegetables. Try to avoid eating in the car or at your desk. Avoid
excessive amounts of caffeine or more than two or three ounces of
alcohol per day.
-
Get some exercise at least four times a week. Find an activity that
you enjoy and that’s reasonably convenient. Having an “exercise buddy”
can help you both stick to it. It need not be complicated: A brisk,
30-minute walk can be refreshing and invigorating. Some people enjoy
stretching, swimming or yoga. Talk with your doctor to plan an exercise
program that makes sense for you.
-
Give yourself 30 minutes a day that is yours alone. This is not
selfish, it’s self-preservation. Spend that 30 minutes doing something
you enjoy: reading, watching TV, working at a hobby or craft.
-
Get enough sleep. Most people need at least seven hours a night.
Many need eight or nine. You are cheating yourself and your elder if you
consider sleep optional. No one can function effectively when they’re
overtired.
Email
a St. Andrew's Care Manager for more information or to schedule a
telephone consultation. If
you're still unsure of what you need, or believe you would benefit from
a senior care assessment call (314) 726-5766.
St. Andrew's At
Home Services --
The Choices You Want. -- The
Solutions
You Need.
|
|
