Self-Care Tips for Family Caregivers of Dementia Patients

As a caregiver, the most important thing you can do for yourself is to take care of yourself both physically and mentally. Caregivers are usually taking care of their responsibilities caring for their senior loved ones all day, and all night. You rarely take a break because you do not want to leave the older adult in someone else's care. You neglect your own health by missing doctor appointments, and your social life has dwindled. You are the epitome of a quality care provider. Your older adult has Dementia, and you do not want any changes in the home environment that may cause aggressive behaviors.

This is to be commended, but you could use some tips listed by Home Care Baltimore to help you with your self-care. It is alright to put yourself first periodically. You will be much better at doing so.

1. Do Not Hesitate To Ask For Help Because Everyone Needs It Once In A While

If it is only for one or two hours at a time, it will be very beneficial to you. Ask for help for specific reasons like making a meal, or taking the older adult out for a short break. Use adult daycare services if needed. Join a support group of caregivers whose senior loved ones have similar health conditions.

2. Manage Your Stress & Emotions

Caring for a loved one who needs Dementia Care can take a lot of time and effort. Your responsibilities can become more overwhelming when the older adult you care for hurts your feelings, gets angry with you, or forget who you are. This is when you need to call a family member or friend to give you a break so that you can relax, refresh, and renew.

3. Take Advantage of Respite Care

Sometimes, both you and your senior loved one can use a break. Respite care like Senior Care Baltimore will take care of your senior loved one just as you would. They are available for hours at a time, overnight, on weekends, or longer. Use this time to keep your doctor appointments to ensure that you are healthy, or take a vacation to a destination you have longed to visit. You can also spend quality time reading, going to a regular exercise class, or doing other activities of interest to you.

4. Stay Socially Connected With Your Friends

Make scheduled plans to get together once or twice per month to discuss interesting facts, or go out on the town. Your physical, mental, and social health is important to your care.

Final Words

Instead of working constantly, take some time throughout the day for short breaks. You can ask for help from family members to do things like sit in the television room and watch a movie with the older adult preferably during the morning hours. This could be your time to do physical activity or engage in a hobby. You must maintain your mental and physical health in order to provide quality care for your senior loved one who has Dementia. You both will benefit.