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Caregiver stress: Don't forget self-care

Enlist more helpers

Not sure how to lighten your load? When people ask what they can do to help you, have a list ready. While many caregiving tasks might be things you want to do yourself, there are plenty of chores that other people could take over, such as:

  • Grocery shopping
  • Yardwork
  • Cooking
  • Cleaning
  • Taking the person to their next medical appointment

Sometimes it can be difficult to accept help. Try to remember that helping others makes people feel good. When you are willing to accept help from friends and family, you're actually giving them an opportunity to feel good about themselves.

Even just having someone sit with your family member while you take a break can give you some time to recharge. Many communities have elder care or respite services, which can give you some time for yourself.

Many caregivers provide care 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you can find respite and attend yoga class three times a week, that can have a positive impact on your health and wellness.