New caregivers are sometimes shocked to discover that tending to their aging loved ones’ needs isn’t always what they thought it would be. While you’ll have many sweet moments you share with your loved one, you must also be prepared to experience occasional times of sadness when things aren’t going perfectly. When you experience caregiving-related sadness, use these tips to increase the happiness in your life.
Find Comfort in Your Routine
While sadness is often linked to catastrophic events, you may find you simply feel sad when each day feels exactly like the one that came before it. Sticking to a routine is important for your loved one, but it could cause you to become bored or feel trapped. When this happens, try to view the routine as a source of comfort. Taking on the view that it’s a good thing to know what to expect each day can help you maintain the right perspective.
Family caregivers can prevent sadness by taking regular breaks. Whether you need respite from your caregiving duties or your aging loved one needs live-in care, Barrie, ON, Home Care Assistance can meet your family’s care needs. Our dedicated caregivers are available around the clock to provide transportation to doctor’s appointments, ensure seniors take their prescribed medications, and help with a variety of tasks in and outside the home.
Vent Your Frustrations
Your sadness may also stem from pent-up frustrations you feel unable to express to your loved one. After all, it’s not your loved one’s fault that he or she takes so long to get dressed or keeps forgetting where he or she put things. While you should never lose your temper with your loved one, you can find a safe emotional outlet that allows you to vent. For example, you could write about your frustrations in a journal or take the opportunity to vent with another caregiver who understands.
Get Some Sunlight
Feelings of sadness somehow magically dissipate when spending time in the sun. Although a beach vacation may feel like an impossibility, you can still take a blanket outside and read that novel you’ve had on your shelf for ages. While your loved one spends time with another caregiver, make sure to get outdoors and enjoy the sun’s rays, which have mood-boosting properties.
If you’re caring for a senior loved one and are feeling overwhelmed, consider hiring a professional caregiver. Although it may be challenging to find reliable, highly rated home care service, you can turn to Home Care Assistance. Our respite and live-in caregivers are expertly trained to assist seniors with a wide array of important tasks, including cooking, bathing, light housekeeping, and exercise.
Do Something Unexpected
Sometimes just a minor break from the normal routine is all it takes to lift a caregiver’s spirits. Try doing something each day that you wouldn’t normally do. For instance, you could paint your nails a cheery colour or play some upbeat music while you help your loved one get out of bed. Adding a little fun to your day may remind you to smile.
Remind Yourself of Your Reasons for Caregiving
Family caregivers often endure major burdens on their time and energy, and you might find yourself questioning if it’s all worth it, which is completely normal. However, you can combat these negative thoughts by remembering the good things that come with your role. For instance, you likely have a tighter bond with your loved one now that you spend so much time together.
Know When to Seek Professional Assistance
Most of the time, simple tricks can turn a bad mood around. However, you must stay alert for signs your temporary sadness is turning into full-blown depression. If you feel sad for more than two weeks or find the previous tips aren’t working, reach out for professional support so you can renew your happiness as a caregiver.
Caring for a senior loved one can be overwhelming, but family caregivers can reduce emotional, physical, and mental stress by hiring professional in-home care. Families who need help caring for senior loved ones can turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of Barrie in-home care. Services available in our customizable care plans include meal prep, mental and social stimulation, assistance with personal hygiene tasks, and much more. Whether your parent needs hourly or live-in care, give us a call at 647-970-3803 today.