Caregiver Wellness - Time to Take a Break!

Taking a time-out while being the primary caregiver for a loved one can feel selfish. The truth is though, you are actually helping yourself and your loved one when you carve out time for yourself. According to a recent study in the Journals of Gerontology, patients who were involved in respite care had fewer behavior problems and slept better at night than those whose caregivers did not take an occasional break. Additionally, caregivers who utilized respite care were less stressed and happier overall in their own lives!

There are a few ways to get the caregiver respite time you need to recharge. Perhaps a family member or friend could take over for a few hours, maybe there is a local adult day care center nearby or consider home health care services through Premier - we'd be happy to help!

However you choose to find the respite care, it's important to take the time to relax, refresh and recharge. There is nothing selfish about that - in fact, the care you're providing in and of itself is selfless (often thankless) and deserves an applause!

Need ideas for what to do once you get that much needed break? Here are some!

1. Read Something
   • whether you like to read a novel or the newspaper, in hard copy or on your kindle, take the time to let your mind do the wandering.
2. Workout
   • there are so many ways to break a sweat that will invigorate the mind, body and soul. Running, biking, yoga, barre or swimming are just a few suggestions!
3. Spend Time with a Friend
   • go out to lunch, see a movie, grab a coffee or do some shopping - all of these things are better spent with a good friend!
4. Rediscover Your Passion
   • whether you've always loved crafting, painting, cooking, etc - carve out some time to get back into it!
5. Take a Nap
   • sleep is often one of the simplest ways to recharge - keep it to a short 15-20 minute cat nap to avoid feeling groggy after.
6. Soak Away the Stress
   • indulge in a spa day or simply make your own spa day at home - a warm bath with Epsom salts and a few drops of essential oils will calm the mind and soothe the muscles.
7. Learn Something New
   • if you've always wanted to learn to paint, knit or discover woodworking - now is as good a time as any!
8. Play a Game
   • some games are great brain workouts which can be the perfect refresher with added benefits - download the newest brain app, play a game of sudoku or practice a rubiks cube.
9. Take a Walk
   • whether inside or out, taking a walk in the peace and quiet can be the pause button your mind needs - check out our blog on walking to learn about its other major benefits.

Caregivers, we see you! We see your strength and resilience! Don't be afraid to take a break and recharge so the beautifully selfless work you do everyday does not become burdensome and stressful.

If we can help give you the time you need to recharge - we'd be happy to help! Give us a call today :) 866 720 0124