As the baby boomers ease into late middle age and retirement, there is a pressing issue that more and more of them are encountering - taking care of their parents. Once on the receiving end of care growing up, baby boomers are now becoming the caregivers to their parents. Of course, there are even times when you become the caregiver to your spouse as well.
It doesn't matter whether you are caring for your spouse or your parents; seniors serving as caregivers are struggling. Instead of living a retirement full of hobbies and travel, you are now providing caregiver duties. Yes, it is all in the name of love and duty to your family; however, after a while the caregiver job becomes quite stressful. You need a few strategies in place so that you can learn to deal with the stress and not have the need for a caregiver yourself!
Stress-Busting Strategies to Get You Through
The best defense is a good offense. If possible, talk with your spouse or elderly parents and decide what the game plan will be in certain scenarios. Agree on when professional help should be called in and when it is appropriate to ask for other assistance. Unfortunately, not all people do this which leaves the need for these stress-busting strategies:
1. Know your limitations and accept them. You are not a superhero and not everything can be handled on your own. Don't be afraid to ask other family members nearby for assistance. Be forceful, if you have to.
You might also want to talk with the doctor and insurance company to see what options you and your elderly parents have. Many times there are social workers with the city and state that can help you get the assistance you need.
2. Allow your elderly parents or spouse to have a say in the care giving plans. The greatest fear for older adults is the loss of independence, not being able to do what they want, when they want it. While it may be frustrating, there has to be a compromise in care giving.
3. Keep a diary of all the happenings during your stint as care giver. Relying on memory does not always help when you need to make sure that all the information is intact. You never know when you may have to meet with a lawyer to determine your parents' ability to make their own decisions.
4. Be proactive on care giving duties as well as keeping their spirits up. When other people are happy and engaged, that tends to bright up the moods of others in the room. Being positive is important.
5. Take time for yourself; you are no good to your parents or spouse as a care giver if you run yourself ragged, not getting enough sleep or down time. Call for help from a friend, neighbor or family member and then go take a break somewhere else. It's ok to cry and let out your frustrations. Exercise is the best therapy as the endorphins pumping naturally brightens your mood.
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