Caregiver Tips August 2024

Many of ONC’s readers are caregivers. We are always exploring ways to support the caregivers in our lives, whether we’re receiving care or providing it. Each month we provide a few easy, sustainable tips for caregivers, to help and support the people who care for us all!

This month, AOS Care Management Care Manager Kate Pomplun offers three important steps for self-care:

3 Self Care Tips for Caregivers: 

1. Make sleep a priority: Yes, easier said than done, but still quite important. This may mean less free time, but your body and stress level will thank you. Could be expanded… It can be so hard when your time is not your own b/c of the demands of caregiving – especially with someone who has dementia and doesn’t sleep through the night… 

2. Delegate tasks you can let go of: Are there others who are willing to help but don’t live nearby or work during daytime hours? Would they contribute to paying for occasional respite care? Or a grocery/meal delivery? Can another person handle financial tasks remotely/online? Could they do other things around the house allowing you a break/some free time? 

3. Have an outlet – whether spiritual, physical, social, something that helps you focus on something positive you can do/enjoy in your life. A content soul and overall perspective can be refreshing, especially if you find methods for mindfulness in these outlets.