Use these strategies for finding balance as a family caregiver in 2024.
“I’m going to clean the bathrooms more frequently.”
“I’m going to force myself to run three miles each day.”
“I’m going to eat more celery and less chocolate.”
Do your New Year’s resolutions feel more like punishment than positivity? If so, resolve to make 2024 the year you set some goals you’ll look forward to keeping! If you need a little inspiration to get started, consider the following:
Top Tips for Finding Balance as a Family Caregiver in 2024
Care for yourself. You spend so much time caring for others. Set time aside each day to do something kind, just for you. This could be as simple as a bubble bath before bed, a quick run to a favorite coffee shop, or designated time each day to curl up under a cozy quilt and read.
- Check your inner dialogue. Nip any self-directed words of negativity in the bud. If you find you’re silently berating yourself for losing your patience, stop and remind yourself that you are a loving, selfless, and dedicated family caregiver for the person you love. Because of you, they can continue living at home and enjoy the best possible quality of life. Think about how you would encourage a friend in your shoes, and turn that encouragement inward.
- Let go of what you can’t control. So much of the time we spend worrying is the result of things that are outside of our control. Give yourself permission to step back and remind yourself that you are human, and there will be situations you can’t resolve and problems you can’t fix.
- Strive to find the bright side. There are certainly difficulties and challenges with caring for an older loved one. However, there are a number of positives to focus on instead. Rather than fret about the inclement weather that changed your plans, settle in to watch some home movies and reminisce over a cup of comforting cocoa.
- Accept help. Let this be the year that you realize caring for someone you love is a job that is much more effective when shared. Let family and friends know that you would like some support, and allow them to step in to help with meals, housework, laundry, running errands—whatever would alleviate stress and allow you to attain a healthier life balance.
At Grace Home Care, we’re here to help make these and any other New Year’s resolutions a reality! Our caregivers are fully trained and experienced in a multitude of care needs, and can partner with you to:
- Help with laundry, light housekeeping, changing bed linens, etc.
- Provide transportation and accompaniment to medical appointments and procedures or fun outings
- Plan and prepare healthy, delicious meals
- Offer friendly companionship for an older loved one, including engaging conversations, puzzles, games, hobbies, exercise, and more
- Pick up groceries and run any other errands as needed
- And so much more
Contact us online or give us a call any time at 785-286-2273 to request more information on our customized home care services, available throughout the Topeka area.
From the Grace Home Care family to yours, Happy Holidays and all the best in the new year!