8 Ways to Mitigate Caregiver Stress
Many of us belong to the sandwich generation; we are caring for aging parents while raising our own children. Back in my caregiving days, I cared for a total of seven elders along with my two sons. Talk about a sandwich—mine was a whopper! Yes, there were times when I wondered how I could possibly keep it up. There were certainly times when I would have loved to run away from all my responsibilities.
Obviously, we are responsible, caring people who wouldn’t do that, but we can’t simply ignore these urges to return to “normal” life. Our feelings of exhaustion and stress are valid, even if we feel guilty about them. Don’t add to your burden by beating yourself up over these thoughts. Instead of resigning yourself to feeling powerless or ashamed, learn how to take an active role in fighting caregiver burnout, minimizing stress, and improving your mental health.
How to Minimize the Stress of Caregiving
If you feel like you’d love an escape from caregiving but can never find the time or energy to get away, then start small. Attend a yoga class, go to lunch with some friends, take a walk around the block or even engage in a little retail therapy. Above all, prioritize the categories below. They may seem obvious, but ensuring that your basic needs are met will help make…
Helpful Tools:
Stay connected with Memoryboard: Designed by caregivers. Memoryboard helps families share reminders, messages, updates, and photos on an easy-to-use screen designed for people with dementia. Peace of mind for families, independence for loved ones.
Wetness indicator and alert to help manage incontinence with dignity. SenecaSense Home: Discreet Support That Restores Comfort and Confidence
Leslie Kernisan, MD, MPH, has opened up support! View two free caregiving webinars that can help you help your older parents (and yourself).
Discover the Difference. EGOSAN: The premium incontinence brand caregivers love: They save work! Now Available on Amazon.
Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories: “…This book is for all of us; let it help you cope! Thank you to the author and everyone she spoke with!” …Dolores
