Prioritizing Wellbeing as a Caregiver
Caregivers, remember to care for yourself too. A few mindful moments each day can make all the difference in managing stress while supporting your loved ones.
By Ewa Frydel, Owner
Being a caregiver for an elderly loved one can be incredibly rewarding, but let's not sugarcoat it—it can also be overwhelming.
The responsibilities pile up, and the emotional toll of watching someone you care about struggle can push even the most dedicated caregivers to their limits.
The problem is, in the whirlwind of caring for others, it's easy to forget about caring for yourself. The truth is, if you don't take the time to manage your own wellbeing, you won’t be much help to anyone else.
Here are a few practical tips to help you stay grounded during high-stress times.
They aren’t about bubble baths and candles (though I’m not knocking them); instead, they focus on what you can do right now to maintain your health and peace of mind while giving the best care possible.
1. Create a Routine that Works for You, Too
It’s easy to fall into the trap of structuring your entire day around your loved one’s needs. Yes, caregiving requires flexibility, but that doesn’t mean you need to toss your own schedule out the window. Build a routine that includes time for things like exercise, reading, or even just a quiet moment with your coffee. Start small: block out 10–15 minutes just for yourself and stick to it, even when things feel chaotic.
2. Delegate When Possible
As caregivers, we often feel like we have to be the hero and do everything ourselves. But leaning on others isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a smart strategy. Whether it's hiring outside help for a few hours a week, asking a family member to pitch in, or finding a respite care service, give yourself permission to step back from time to time. Delegating tasks allows you to focus on your wellbeing without feeling guilty.
3. Set Realistic Expectations
One of the fastest routes to burnout is expecting yourself to be perfect. You are going to have days where things go wrong, where you're exhausted, frustrated, and questioning everything. Set realistic expectations for yourself and understand that some days, "good enough" is exactly that—good enough.
4. Stay Connected with Your Support Network
Isolation is the enemy of wellbeing, especially when caregiving feels all-consuming. Make a point to stay in touch with your support network. It might be a quick text, a phone call, or an online group for caregivers. Sometimes just talking things through can provide a sense of relief. You are not in this alone.
5. Use Mindfulness as a Tool
You don’t need to become a meditation expert, but integrating a few moments of mindfulness into your day can make a huge difference. Whether it's deep breathing exercises while your loved one naps or taking a moment to focus on your surroundings, mindfulness can help reduce stress and refocus your mind. It's about taking back control of your mental state when everything around you feels out of control.
6. Prioritize Sleep (Seriously)
I know, this one sounds like a luxury, but sleep is the foundation of your mental and physical health. Even if you can’t get a full eight hours, try to create a wind-down routine for whatever sleep you do get. That could mean cutting down on screen time before bed, using calming music, or making your sleep space more comfortable. Anything that improves your sleep quality will have a ripple effect on how you manage stress during the day.
7. Get Moving—Even When You Don’t Feel Like It
Exercise can feel like the last thing you want to do when you’re stressed, but even a short walk can help clear your mind. Movement releases endorphins, which improve your mood and lower stress levels. The key is to find something that doesn’t feel like a chore. Whether it’s stretching, dancing in the kitchen, or taking a stroll around the block, do something that gets your body moving in a way that feels manageable.
8. Know When to Seek Professional Help
There’s no shame in needing extra support—whether that's talking to a therapist, joining a caregiver support group, or even seeking guidance from a healthcare professional about managing stress. Sometimes you need someone else’s perspective to remind you that it’s okay to ask for help.
9. Celebrate the Small Wins
Caregiving can feel like a never-ending to-do list, and it's easy to overlook the small victories. Did you get your loved one to an appointment on time? Did you finally find a solution to that persistent issue? Did you simply make it through the day with a shred of sanity intact? Celebrate those moments—they matter more than you think.
Caregiving is a marathon, not a sprint. By prioritizing your own wellbeing, you’re better equipped to handle the stress and give your loved one the care they deserve.
Remember, you don’t have to be perfect. You just have to keep showing up, and that includes showing up for yourself.
We offer Respite Care in times of high-stress. If you need a caregiver to assist you with caring for your elderly mom or dad, please contact us.
We’re here to help!
Legal Disclaimer
This blog provides general information and discussions about how caregivers can maintain well-being while caring for seniors. It is not intended and should not be construed as medical or legal advice.
