Paradigm Health’s team approach to hospice care provides resources and support for caregivers.
A caregiver for a hospice patient needs support—physical, emotional and often-times spiritual support to stay healthy and strong themselves. The physical care of a loved one might include day-to-day tasks, keeping up with housecleaning, running errands and cooking and often times decision-making. Beyond the physical support needed, support for caregiver’s mental and emotional well-being to alleviate stress must be a self-care priority as well.
Whether you are a hospice caregiver for a few days, months or years, In order to care for another, you must first take care of yourself. The hospice care team at Paradigm Health can assist in supporting you as a caregiver and providing and connecting you with resources to help alleviate or reduce stress.
Here are a few self-care reminders and tips for caregivers:
- Remember your self-worth throughout this caregiving process—you are important too.
- Get enough rest, taking time to nap during the day if needed and conserve your energy.
- Exercise even if it is for a short walk to help sleep and give energy.
- Eat well and choose a variety of healthy foods, remember to drink plenty of water.
- Try to reduce stress, take short breaks and think of other things.
- Listen to your body—is it tired? Stressed? Tense?
- Nurture your spiritual side.
- Be patient and considerate of yourself especially on difficult days.
- Avoid unrealistic expectations of yourself and allow others to help you.
- Set limitations. It is okay to say no sometimes.
“There are only four kinds of people in the world: Those who have been caregivers. Those who are currently caregivers. Those who will be caregivers, and those who will need a caregiver.”
– Rosalyn Carter
