What Does “Take Care of Yourself” Mean if You’re a Caregiver?
Elder Care in Clark County VA: Taking Care of Yourself
There are some phrases that family caregivers hear quite a bit but may not really take to heart. One of those is “take care of yourself.” It might be something that you hear in casual conversation or in a how to guide for caregivers. Regardless, it’s an important message that you need to interpret for yourself.
Check Your Eating.
If you’re eating on the go constantly or you’re relying on convenience foods to get you by, you probably aren’t eating all that well. Your body needs regular fuel in order to keep you going. If you’re not sure what to eat, consider working with a nutritionist or a dietician in order to establish a healthy eating plan for yourself.
Get Enough Sleep.
Worry, stress, and your own health conditions can all conspire and keep you from getting all the sleep that you need. Work out a way for you to get more sleep into your life. That might mean going to bed earlier or getting up a little bit later, but make sure you’re sleeping. If you’re still having trouble, talk to your doctor about what else you can try.
Move Your Body.
Every body needs to move. Talk with your doctor about how much exercise is right for you. Once you know that you’re okay to exercise, get started. You don’t have to do boring exercises you don’t like. Work exercise into your everyday life and you’re not exercising so much as you are moving your body in ways that you enjoy and that benefit you.
Pay Attention.
You need to learn to pay attention to your body, your mind, and your emotions. All of these different parts of you will let you know when you need time away or something else. Make it a point to take regular respite time. If you need extra help with coverage, consider hiring elder care providers or asking other family members to pitch in. Time away is not negotiable and you’ll find your mind and body will let you know that.
Sit down and work out your own self-care plan to ensure that you’re taking good care of yourself on a regular basis.
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional elder care in Clark County, VA, please contact the caring staff at LivinRite Home Care. Call Us Today at (703) 369-6677. Serving Northern Virginia, The Valley, and Surrounding Communities.
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