Family Caregivers: Don’t Leave Taking Care of Yourself Off Your Holiday To-Dos

It’s the happiest season of the year! However, if you’re one of the millions of people in America who is providing care for a senior family member, the approaching holidays may feel more like the most stressful time of the year. Setting aside time for taking care of yourself may have been relegated to the very bottom of your to-do list, but the aging care experts at Harmony Home Health & Hospice of Provo and the surrounding areas would like to encourage you to reconsider and reprioritize your self-care!

Taking care of yourself helps you to take better care of your loved ones. These five simple recommendations from our experts in home health and hospice in Provo and the surrounding communities can help:

1. Eat right

When you’re stressed, you may be inclined to overeat. When you’re worn out, it’s easy to select whatever is handy; fast food, tea and toast, chips and a soft drink. Your body needs high quality food to perform well.

2. Work out on a regular basis

Physical exercise is the original “feel good” treatment. It helps you get a better night’s sleep and wake up refreshed and ready to face another strenuous day. Daily exercise improves both your emotional and physical wellness, keeping your mind alert and body fine-tuned and energetic.

3. Get plenty of sleep

This could be easier said than done, particularly if you’re caring for a person who tends to wander during the evening. Nevertheless, most people need to have six to eight hours of sleep per night to maintain good health. Catch up with brief naps if necessary or call Harmony Home Health & Hospice of Albuquerque and nearby areas for evening caregiving support.

4. Make time for yourself

Regardless of whether you’re caring for a parent, spouse, or other family member or friend, you need time for yourself. You need time to engage in outside interests, other people, and a means to escape from the continuous pressure of caregiving. It’s easy to let friendships lag when you have important things to do, but friends can get you through some challenging times, simply by being there. Harmony Home Health & Hospice’s respite care services can help caregivers take the break they need during the holiday season and all through the year.

5. Find a support group

It’s common to feel isolated in your role as a caregiver. This is why it’s important to talk to others, particularly other caregivers. They’ll understand what you’re up against, they will grasp where you’re coming from, and they might even have some great tips.

Need some extra time to take care of that holiday to-do list? Contact the dedicated caregiving experts at Harmony Home Health & Hospice. We can provide the care and attention your family member needs while giving you the time you need to accomplish your to-dos and take a little time for yourself.