4 Self Care Tips for Caregivers

Providing care for a family member can be rewarding yet exhausting at the same time. It can be even more difficult to care for someone else if you’re not first caring for yourself, so it is imperative that you take steps to improve your health and well-being in the midst of providing care for someone else. RISE Services, Inc. Oregon highly recommends practicing these four self-care tips.

1. Accept Your Limitations

One of the best ways you can give yourself a break is by understanding your limitations. No one expects you to provide for every one of your family member’s needs. It can be easy to feel guilty for this, but remember, you are only human. If you can accept your limitations, you can be released from the extra burden you’re placing on yourself. Plus, you may be more willing to ask for help when you need it.

2. Connect With Others

Knowing you’re not alone in this particular circumstance can provide you with the support and encouragement you need. Joining a support group or connecting with others in the same situation allows you to share your concerns, fears, worries, and burdens. You may be surprised at just how much you needed these connections when you return to your caregiving job relaxed, refreshed, and ready to assist your loved one.

3. Improve Your Own Health

Participating in activities that improve your own health can be very beneficial. You can join a gym, sign up for a swim class, or attend a yoga class with friends. Also, consider taking your dog for afternoon walks or jogging with friends a few times a week. Don’t forget about your mental health, too. Perhaps you can plan an afternoon away each week, take up a new hobby, or start reading that thrilling book series you’ve always wanted. 

4. Take Advantage of Respite Care

In-home respite care is another valuable resource that provides compassionate care for your loved one and self-care for yourself. There are several types of respite care available:

• In-home respite where a health aide comes to your home so you can leave with no worries about your family member
• Adult care centers and day programs that provide fun and engaging activities for your loved one
• Supported living services for individuals who do not require intensive care but still need someone to help with daily living activities

Supporting Oregon Caregivers & Their Families

Take the time you need for self-care so you can be more than ready to care for your loved one. If you want to learn more about our respite care services, contact our office today. We look forward to assisting both you and your family member with our in-home respite and supported living services.

Source: “Caregiver stress: Tips for Taking Care of Yourself.” Web article. Mayo Clinic. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). Web. 14 Oct. 2022.