Some chronic health conditions seem overwhelming. As you help your mom or dad with personal care, grooming, housekeeping, meals, transportation, and more, it can seem impossible to fit it all in. Make the most of these challenging moments and days.
Remember No One Can Do It All
There are only so many hours in the day. Don’t think that you’re a failure if you can’t do it all in the time you have available. It doesn’t make you a failure.
Prioritize your tasks each day. Put the most important chores at the top of your list and focus your time and energy on those. Leave time for quality time with your mom and dad. Everything else can be completed if you have time. If not, leave them for another day.
Do the Best You Can
When a task seems harder than you’re able to do, give it your best attempt. If you don’t do something correctly, ask someone to help you. You may need to try something a few times before you do it correctly. You may not be able to complete it and need to bring in a professional. It’s okay to need help.
Laughter is the Best Therapy
On the toughest day, do something that gets yourself and others laughing. Laughter gives you the chance to start fresh and forget about the things that you were struggling with. You might want to put on a comedy and watch it with your mom and dad. You could simply put on a comedy sketch on a smart speaker.
You might simply start laughing and get your parents to join in. Laughter Yoga may seem weird, but it has helped many ease tension and reduce stress. You can find videos online to get you started.
Get Outside
Go outside and get some fresh air. A 30-minute walk is often all that’s needed to de-stress and clear your mind. If you cannot leave your parents alone, bring them with you on the walk if you have to. If they can’t handle a walk, sit them outside on a patio chair and walk around the yard while they’re within sight.
Arrange Professional Caregivers to Help Your Parents
What’s the best way to make sure you don’t become overwhelmed? Hire home care to help out. Instead of trying to help your mom and dad with every daily activity and care need, have caregivers take over. While your parents have caregivers helping out, take some time to yourself.
When you return to your role as a family caregiver, you’ll be refreshed and energized. Call a home care agency to learn more about services and prices.
If you or an aging loved one is considering home care services in Lafayette, CA, please contact the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Walnut Creek. (925) 203-3039.
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