Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate: Dr. Cynthia Speaks!
Topic: Ways to Alleviate Caregiver Stress
Caregivers must never dismiss the interests and passions they once had before becoming caregivers. Stress is a reality when caring for another person. Caregivers must have a way to escape to refresh themselves. Caregivers often get lost in their duties and forget about themselves. This creates a dangerous circumstance. Having activities and hobbies helps relieve the stress that can happen as a consequence of being a caregiver. It would be fun to discuss ways to stay alert and engaged. Remember that while caregiving is necessary, there is more to your life than caregiving. It is only a part of your life’s journey.
Suggestions to Decrease Stress
A host of interests can relax the mind, body, and spirit. One of my favorites is gardening. It lets you stay close to home but gets you outside to breathe fresh air. There’s something therapeutic about having your hands dirty. Gardening is well-known for decreasing stress, improving physical well-being, and aiding mental health.
Another interest known to decrease is baking. Baking keeps you close to your loved one while enjoying an activity unrelated to caregiving. Baking can be relaxing, and playing with flour can be fun and messy. Enjoying those sweet treats is the reward at the end. No judgment here! LOL!
Jigsaw puzzles are an interest I enjoyed while caregiving. The good part of puzzles is that you can work on your schedule. My kitchen table had 1000 pieces all over it until the puzzle was complete, only to tear it apart and put it back in the box. All that work!
I cannot ignore exercise. It is necessary to take care of your body. You can even take online exercise classes if staying close to your loved one is essential.
As Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate, I know that all these interests decrease stress, and caregivers can avoid or reduce stressful days by doing something they enjoy. The objective is to find what works best to meet your needs. The overall message is to make time for you. Be Safe! Be Well!
Dr. Cynthia J. Hickman, a retired registered nurse and case manager, is the CEO of Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate. She has released several books, including The Essential Caregiver Training Course for Corporations and Community, From the Lens of Daughter, Nurse, and Caregiver: A Journey of Duty and Honor, and The Black Book of Important Information for Caregivers.
Website: www.cynthiajhickman.com
