Those who care for loved ones that have Alzheimer’s disease often report the highest levels of stress. While they strive to perform the best care for their loved one, the continual wear and tear of the daily care can get overwhelming. Causing anyone to reach a point where they’re not sure if they can continue providing care for the person they love with Alzheimer’s disease.
If you are caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, you want to take steps now to avoid that burnout and stress that can create health concerns of your own. As well as impact the way you care for your loved one and yourself. Here are five tips to look into implementing now, before you become overwhelmed.
Join a Support Group
Whether in person or virtually, having others that know exactly what you are going through is important. Your friends and family can be very supportive but an Alzheimer’s-based small support group can listen without judgment, provide tips that they’ve used and have worked, and lead you to resources to help you assistance. They’ll have personal experience with Alzheimer’s care professionals and local resources so that you can make informed decisions.
Use Those Resources
There is nothing wrong with getting some help from others, especially those trained in serving the Alzheimer’s community. An Alzheimer’s care provider will know how to interact with your loved one positively and Alzheimer’s care providers can help with many of the day-to-day chores so that you can free yourself up for other responsibilities, including self-care.
Find time for yourself. You may feel “trapped” by your situation, but finding time to get away and do things that bring you joy is important as you care for someone else. It’ll provide you with the energy and emotional boost you’ll need when you return. Whether it’s a few hours or a few days, accepting respite care from a trained Alzheimer’s care professional should be worked into your schedule.
Don’t Neglect Exercising
Being active even just for 10 minutes a day can help you reduce stress and alleviate anxiety. Exercise can also boost your mood and provide small respites throughout the day. Find an activity you love and then commit to doing it regularly (daily or every other day) so that you’ll receive the benefits of getting moving.
Practice Relaxation Techniques
Experiment with different ways to relax and reduce your stress levels. You might want to try something like yoga or meditation to help you free your mind from worries. A quiet activity like painting or journaling may be another way to relax. Even just sitting on the porch each morning with a good cup of coffee and enjoying the birds singing can be considered a relaxation technique if you intentionally make a point to be mindful of the moment and tune out the responsibilities of the day.
While it may feel like you’re in this alone, finding Alzheimer’s care support can help you provide the best of you to your loved one while ensuring you’ll be okay as well.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Alzheimer’s Care in McKinney, TX, contact the caring staff at HomeWell Care Services Plano TX today. Call (469) 596-6500
HomeWell Care Services Plano TX is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Plano, Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Richardson, Garland, Little Elm, Prosper, and the surrounding areas.
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