How to Care For Yourself When Caring For An Elderly Parent

Providing continuous care for a elderly parent can be stressful and exhausting. While they depend on you to care for them, you have to find ways to take care of yourself.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Make a special time on a regular basis for yourself either after the parent has gone to bed or is taking a nap. Sometimes relaxing is more important even than sleep. Read a book, watch a movie, or take a bubble bath by candlelight. Make it a time that you won't be interrupted.

2. Find someone to give you a longer break whether its another family member, a friend, or a hired caregiver. Spend at least two or three hours away from home. Go to a movie, get a massage, or go shopping. Do whatever relaxes you but don't check in with the relief person. This is as much about relaxing your mind as your body. Make this a regular appointment even if its only once a month. It will give you something to look forward to.

3. Find someone to confide in, to discuss problems and how you're feeling. It may be a friend, a mentor or a pastor but make it a regular meeting. Talking about your problems can make them seem more manageable. It keeps you from feeling all alone in your situation.

Tips & Warnings

• Check with your local senior center or services organization for volunteers who provide short term respite care for free.
• Don't let yourself feel guilty for spending time on yourself. You're doing it for everyone's benefit, including your own.