Caregiving
By Kelley Hansen, Aging and Caregiving Specialist Healthy Aging Informal caregivers (people who support and assist their loved ones) ages 66-96 have a 63% higher risk of dying than the general population because caregivers tend to disregard their own health and well-being. Ignoring stress levels and health can cause a weaker immune system, nutritional problems, depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. One of the most important things a caregiver can do is take time for themselves, even if it is just ten minutes a day. When you feel well, you can take better care of your loved one. Here are a few things you can do to manage your health and well- being: 1. Exercise: A small amount of physical activity each day can boost your energy levels and reduce tension. Pick an activity that you will enjoy, so you are more likely to do it.
2. Healthy Eating: Eating nutritionally will help give you more energy and can help prevent health problems. If you must eat on the go, then pick healthy snack options. 3. Make time for yourself: It is good to ask for help or take a break. Consider involving family or friends, use respite services, talk with professionals, and participate in a support group. Add an hour each day or one afternoon a week to your calendar. You are worth it! 4. Keep Medical and Dental Appointments: Invest in your physical health. If you are not well enough to take care of your loved one, then who will it be? 5. Mental Health: Acknowledge your feelings. It is “normal” to experience many emotions, if you feel stuck or burned out then find a healthy way to express your feelings or talk with a professional. 6. Take Care of your Business: Manage your finances and plan for the future/ end of life. Keep living, this way it will be easier to re-integrate into life later on. 7. Stay Connected: Connect with your friends and talk about things other than your role as a caregiver. Continue participating in your favorite activities or hobbies. 8. Investigate Local Services: Learn about resources that are available in your community that lend support, provide option planning, and training.
9. Sleep: Rest as much as you can, so things that are manageable will not become unbearable. 10. Avoid Alcohol and Other Drugs: You may feel like they help with the stress, but overall, they do not support your health. They wear your body down. As we age, our health and well-being do not bounce back as well as they once did. Remember that you are not alone on this journey! PCOA is here to help with information, ideas, support, and resources for healthy caregiving/healthy living. Please reach out to PCOA’s Helpline (520) 790-7262.
September/October 2023, Never Too Late | Page 13
Pima Council on Aging
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