Three Simple Tips for Managing Common Caregiver Frustrations

Three Simple Tips for Managing Common Caregiver Frustrations

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Being a family caregiver is one of the greatest and most rewarding experiences, but it comes with its share of trials and hardships. Sometimes it's easy to feel overwhelmed and discouraged. It's important that you employ strategies for managing common family caregiver frustrations. Here are some tips:

1. Know That You Are Not Alone. Being a family caregiver is harder when you feel as if you have to do everything by yourself. Don't be afraid to reach out to those around you for help. Not only are there people who would be willing to come to your aid, like family members and friends, but you'd be surprised at the help available by reaching out in your community. Try an online search for fun senior activities near you.

2. Remember Your Why. Take the time to sit and think what you're accomplishing and why. Let your love for your family member be a constant reminder of the good that you are doing and the difference you are making. When you keep your why at the center of your effort, you'll have a better perspective. Frustrations are more easily managed when you have a healthy idea of why the frustrations are worth it.

3. Take Some Time to Check in On Yourself. As a family caregiver, your thoughts are usually anywhere but on yourself. But remember that you cannot be the support your family member needs if your own needs are not being met. Every so often, evaluate yourself and how you are feeling, and what could help you to feel better. Then take the steps to make that happen. Often a few minutes of exercise, some meditation time, or a treat for yourself can make all the difference.

At Caring Senior Service, our expert staff is comprised of extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and trusted professionals who take pride in helping your loved one  manage their daily activities. Contact us today to learn more!

Visit us online @ http://phoenix.caringseniorservice.com

Caregiver Depression? Exercise the Blues Away!

If caregiving has you feeling overwhelmed or stressed you to the point you think you may actually be depressed, you’re not alone.

As Cy Sarah, a participant in our Caregiver Stress Relief  online community said, “When I get overwhelmed, it's because I'm not taking time for myself, so I'm learning to build time into the schedule of appointment, paperwork, chores, etc., just for me...specifically doing something that I like and I want and will help me.”

A recent survey conducted by Home Instead Inc. showed that 31 percent of family caregivers experience significant stress. Caregiving can be very rewarding, but it also can contribute to feelings of anxiety, isolation and guilt.

If you believe you may be experiencing caregiver depression, take heart.Research conducted by Harvard Medical School  found that exercise may work as well as antidepressant medications in easing symptoms of depression.

If you hate exercise or wonder how on earth you’re supposed to find time for fitness during your hectic caregiving day, we have some tips to help. Try these approaches:

• Pick an activity before you try finding time for it. Many experts advise making fitness a priority by scheduling it on your calendar to ensure you honor your commitment. But it’s easy to skip the workout if you hate exercising. To solve this problem, try choosing a fitness activity before you commit to exercising regularly. It’s easy to find time for doing something fun.

Try different types of fitness activities to find the right fit.Exercise is like shoes: you often have to try on several pairs

• to find the one that feels the best. If you find it boring to walk every day, try signing up for an exercise class. If the idea of exercising with a group with other people puts you off, try popping a fitness DVD into your player at home. Keep trying out different types of fitness until you find something that fits your tastes.
• Reach back into childhood for fun ideas. What activities did you enjoy as a kid? Shooting baskets? Nature walks? Dance class? Treat yourself like a kid again by taking up an activity you haven’t done for a long time. You may find it’s just as fun today as you remember it being when you were a kid.
• Don’t make things complicated. Aim for 10 minutes a day of physical activity to start with. It can be something as simple as boogeying around the living room to your favorite music. Anything to get your blood pumping!
• Create a respite plan to ensure you have time for exercise. If your loved one can’t be left alone for even half an hour, you probably need some caregiving help. Enlist the aid of other family members, friends, a neighbor or a paid caregiver to give you some breathing room. You will be a better caregiver if you keep yourself in good health.
• Exercise with your loved one. Exercise benefits seniors in many ways. If you can’t get away to exercise on your own, try finding a class or program that will allow both of you to get fit together. Or simply go walking.

Refresh your body and spirit with a little exercise during the coming weeks and see if it lifts your mood. Visit the Family Caregiver Stress Relief section for more information and resources that can help you manage the challenges of caregiving.

Visit us online @ http://www.caregiverstress.com/stress-management/relief-tips/caregiver-depression-try-this/