Caregiving
The Season of Giving Self-Care By Kelley Hansen , Aging and Caregiving Specialist A caregiver aged 66 to 96 has a 63% higher risk of dying than the general population. A caregiver often gets so emotionally and physically involved in caring for their loved one that they forget to care for themselves. Self-care comes second to everything. Caregivers are at risk because of: • Weakened Immune System: Stress creates short spurts of cortisol to boost immunity, but with constant stress, a caregiver's body has too much cortisol, paving the way for inflammation and reduced ability to fight off infectious invaders. • Nutritional Deficiencies: A caregiver may be so busy that they fail to eat healthy foods consistently. Coupled with decreased appetite, difficulty chewing, medication interactions, and health issues, caregivers can become malnourished. • Depression and Anxiety: A caregiver experiences intense emotions, including frustration and depression. In some cases, caregivers can “burnout” resulting in a state of physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion. When depression or exhaustion lingers, a caregiver may need professional medical or therapeutic help. • Cognitive Burnout: Mental exhaustion affects how a caregiver perceives situations or thinks through challenges and may include poor memory, difficulty focusing, and reduced problem-solving. Caregiver burnout is a vicious cycle where exhaustion makes it difficult to care for a loved one which increases concerns about meeting the loved one's needs. Caregivers can take these steps to prevent stress or burnout. Physically: • Exercise: Physical activity is proven to increase your energy, improve health, and boost your mood. • Nourishment: Healthy and energizing foods boost your immune system and help you to feel better. • Fluids: Hydrating with water improves physical and cognitive function. • Sleep: Getting enough sleep replenishes a person’s focus and energy. Emotionally: • Seek Support: A support group or therapist can be a safe space to share concerns and emotions.
PCOA’S ANNUAL CAREGIVER FEST
Wednesday, Nov. 20th 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Celebrating the Heart of Care: Honoring Our Family Caregivers
Join us for a day of celebration and support for caregivers and the person they care for! Enjoy games and activities, food trucks, enter the free raffle for amazing prizes, and discover self-care Location: PCOA ~ 8467 E. Broadway Blvd., Tucson
activities and valuable resources. Find out more and register today at: https://bit.ly/CaregiverFest
• Mind Your Self Talk: Ditch critical and judgmental thoughts. Learn to let things go and know that you are doing an amazing job! • Healthy Hobbies: Journal, adventure, or seek out favorite activities. Spiritually: • Meditate or Pray: Take a moment to think about what you are grateful for. • Take a Walk: Enjoy nature and the fresh air! Mentally: • Ask for Help: A caregiver may be afraid to ask for help, but asking for help will assist a person to move situations forward more efficiently. • Accept Help: Receiving help creates a sense of belonging and reduces isolation. By being vulnerable, a caregiver allows others to respond to their needs and reduces the caregiver's burden. This season, give yourself the opportunity for self-care. Remember that even with caregiving obligations, you choose how you spend your time, how you show love and affection, and how you celebrate. To talk with an Aging and Caregiver Specialist, call our Helpline at (520) 790-7262.
Page 18 | November/December 2024, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
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