The role of family caregiver is filled with compassion and love as well as responsibilities and difficult decisions. The ups and downs associated with the caregiver role can be especially impactful when an aging loved one displays disheartening changes in behaviour or physical or mental abilities. It’s vital for caregivers to find ways to avoid burnout and stay positive. This favourable practice benefits everyone involved. Read on for some ideas.
Create Memoirs
Memoirs are wonderful gifts to pass on to future generations, and they’re also very cathartic for the people creating them. Consider helping your aging loved one create a memoir of his or her own. You may want to include various photographs, timelines, and stories. Surprising anecdotes often arise while compiling something of this nature, and you may see your loved one in a new light.
If your attitude is constantly negative because your duties are becoming overwhelming, seek assistance from a professional caregiver. Families who need help caring for senior loved ones can turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of senior home care. Services available in our customizable care plans include meal prep, mental and social stimulation, assistance with personal hygiene tasks, and much more.
Learn to Knit
It can be very relaxing to have something routine and practical to do with your hands. When you have a chance, you can pick up where you left off with your knitting project. Not only will you be doing something relaxing, but you can also create gifts for friends and family members or even items to donate to various charities.
Family caregivers need to care for their own wellbeing. If you’re caring for an aging loved one and are feeling overwhelmed, consider hiring a professional caregiver to provide respite care. Waterloo families who want to prevent burnout can turn to Home Care Assistance. One of our professional caregivers can assist your loved one at home while you take a nap, go to work, run errands, or go on vacation.
Use Books Creatively
It’s wonderful to lose yourself in a good book. Ask friends for book titles that are especially upbeat and hopeful. Create a list of cheerful books, or read some of your favourite books out loud to your loved one. Children’s books can also be enjoyed by people of all ages, and they have beautiful illustrations that can engage your loved one.
Display Photographs & Artwork
Sometimes caregivers don’t see friends and family members as often as they did prior to taking on their caregiving duties. Feel close to them by displaying their photographs around the home. Ask grandchildren or nieces and nephews to send your aging relative some of their latest artwork and post it around the house. It’s difficult not to feel positive when surrounded by photographs and youthful artwork.
Look for what’s affirming and good, and you’ll find it. Remind yourself why you’ve taken on the role of caregiver, and treat yourself well as you take this journey with your loved one.
Hiring a professional caregiver is a good way to take a break from your caregiving duties to stave off negative emotions and develop a positive outlook. Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted Waterloo elder care provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Home Care Assistance is here to help. Call (519) 954-2111 today to speak with a friendly and experienced Care Manager to formulate a home care plan for your loved one.