Caregivers in Cherry Hill, NJ
Being a family caregiver is something that most wouldn’t trade for the world. You love your elderly relative and want the best for him. But there are still times that life pulls you in many directions at once and you find yourself feeling out of step everywhere, even with your elderly loved one. Here are some ways that you can keep yourself grounded and more present for all of your various responsibilities.
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a phrase developed to describe that sweet spot where you’re fully engaged in whatever activity you’re doing, whether that’s eating, reading, or spending time with your elderly loved one. Mindfulness means getting out of that zone where you perform your daily duties on autopilot, just zipping through your “to dos.” Pay special attention to everything that you’re doing, while you’re doing it.
De-Stress
Stress is one of those things that no one can avoid entirely, since it’s everywhere. It’s really important that you learn how to deal with your stress, though, instead of letting it build until it blows over. Figure out what your favorite ways are to blow off some steam and then make sure that you set aside time regularly to get rid of some of your stress.
Avoid Multitasking
Multitasking is one of those things that seems like it’s helping you get more accomplished, but it really doesn’t. When you take the time to focus on just one task at a time, you can be more mindful about it and you’re less likely to make mistakes or find yourself interrupted constantly.
Get Some Exercise
Exercise is always one of the first things recommended for destressing and for keeping yourself healthy. But you don’t have to worry about joining a gym or setting aside hours of each day in order to get heavy duty workouts in. Instead, just take a few minutes several times a day to walk around a bit or to do physical activities that you enjoy. If you can work swimming a few laps into your week two or three times a week, then by all means, do so. It’ll help you to feel more fit and it can help to clear your mind.
Socialize
Don’t underestimate the power of a little bit of time spent regularly with other people. Keeping in touch with friends and relatives with whom you enjoy spending time does a world of good for you emotionally and in terms of stress relief. If you’re worried about leaving your elderly loved one on her own, contact a senior care provider and make sure that someone can be there for her when you can’t.
By adding just a few of these techniques to your arsenal, you can help yourself to be more present in all areas of your life, but especially with your elderly loved one.
Source
http://psychology.about.com/od/cognitivepsychology/a/costs-of-multitasking.htm
For all of your caregiver needs in Cherry Hill, NJ and the surrounding areas call and talk to us at Home to Stay Healthcare Solutions (856) 321-1500.
