Gail Gilman, Family Life Consultant, M.Ed., C.F.C.S. and Professor
Emeritus, University of Minnesota
November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time to thank, support,
educate and celebrate the millions of family caregivers across the country.
One often neglected aspect of caregiving is the importance of taking care of
the caregiver. All too often, caregivers are harried by the daily
obligations of work and taking care of their families in addition to their
loved one who needs help.
Because of the great deal of responsibility caregivers assume, it is very
important to understand how to take care of yourself so that you can care
for your loved one better.
Take the following steps in order to keep your physical and mental health a
priority.
* Take a daily vitamin supplement.
* Make exercise a priority for both your mental and physical
well-being.
* Get regular checkups and do not ignore possible symptoms of ill
health.
* Take a break from caregiving. If friends or family cannot fill in,
respite care services may be available in the community.
* Get a flu shot.
* Stay involved in hobbies.
* Laugh with a friend.
* If feelings of sadness and stress persist to the extent that they
prevent decision making, interrupt daily living and discourage participation
in normal activities, depression may be the cause. Seek professional help.
Watch for more Family Living Focus information from Gail Gilman, Family Life
Consultant, M.Ed., C.F.C.S. and Professor Emeritus – University of Minnesota
in next week’s paper.