7 Ways Family Caregivers Can Prevent Stress

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Tips for Family Caregivers to Prevent Stress in Toronto, ON

Every day, caregivers go through stress that can lead to burnout if it is left unaddressed. For many caregivers, stress isn’t necessarily related to one-off events. Instead, it is the daily caregiving duties that often lead to burnout. For these reasons, it is best to hire professional caregivers when your caregiving duties become overwhelming.

Toronto, ON, senior care professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers.

Here are 7 ways family caregivers can prevent stress.

1. Practice Deep Breathing

You may not be aware of how often you hold your breath or don’t take in enough air when you are stressed. Spend a few minutes breathing deeply as you go about your day, and the fresh burst of oxygen reaching your brain may help clear your mind.

2. Connect with Your Loved One

When you find yourself feeling resentful, stop what you are doing and engage with your loved one. Play a game, share a story, and do whatever it takes to enjoy a laugh together so you are reminded of the good things your loved one brings to your life.

3. Enjoy a Hand Massage

While you may not have time for a manicure or full body massage, having someone massage your hands takes only a few minutes. You can even do this activity with your senior loved one by taking turns rubbing lotion into each other’s hands and giving each other a gentle hand massage. 

4. Hire a Respite Caregiver

It is important to take occasional breaks to give yourself a chance to rest mentally or take care of your physical health. Your loved one might enjoy spending time with a new person, and you may find him or her in a better mood when you return. This is also a great way to avoid scheduling conflicts since you know you have someone reliable when you need to get to a doctor’s appointment.

Get in touch with Home Care Assistance to find out how a Toronto, ON, home caregiver can help your aging loved one live a longer, healthier, and happier life. Our caregivers are available 24/7, all of our senior care services come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, and we never ask our clients to sign long-term contracts.

5. Start a Garden

Spending time in green spaces naturally soothes the mind. If getting outside is not possible, start a small windowsill garden or place a potted plant at a prominent place. Seeing the plants provides a visual reminder that the world is a beautiful place.

6. Read a Book

Books can take you to a whole new place, and reading is a relaxing activity. However, you may find it stressful trying to keep up with a book when your duties have you constantly running around. Try choosing a book that has a collection of short stories that can each be finished in one sitting so you can pursue your favorite hobby without feeling stressed.

7. Start a Gratitude Journal

When your caregiving duties become overwhelming, it is important to remember the things that keep you going. Find a pocket-sized notebook, and make a habit of writing down the little things that bring you joy. Reading over notes about how you saw a beautiful sunset or the way your loved one smiles at you over dinner can help you stay positive.

There are certain age-related diseases that require specialized care such as Alzheimer’s. For many families in Toronto, ON, Alzheimer’s care is an essential component of helping their elderly loved ones remain healthy, safe, and happy in the comfort of home. From cognitive stimulation to help with tasks like meal prep, light housekeeping, and transportation, the caregivers at Home Care Assistance are the top choice for families who cannot provide the Alzheimer’s care their aging loved ones need and deserve. To create a customized care plan for your aging loved one, call us at (416) 488-8777.

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