Nearly 15 million Americans are caring for a loved one, and 40 percent of them are also working for an employer. Caregivers may find themselves with so many responsibilities, such as work, family, community and caring for a loved one, that they neglect to take care of themselves. The best thing to do for the person being cared for is to stay physically and emotionally strong.
In recognition of National Caregiver Awareness Month, here’s how:
See a doctor
Caregivers should visit a physician regularly (at least annually) and listen to what their body is telling then. Exhaustion, stress, sleeplessness or changes in appetite or behavior should be taken seriously. Ignoring these symptoms can cause physical and mental health to decline.
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If a person is caring for someone in the late stages of Alzheimer’s, they should talk to a health care provider about a seasonal flu shot. Being vaccinated protects the caretaker and the person he or she is caring for.
Get Moving
Exercise is an important part of staying healthy — it can help relieve stress, prevent disease and make a person feel good. But finding the time to exercise is another story.
There also are many ways to be active with the person with dementia. Here are a few ideas:
- Take a walk outside to enjoy the fresh air.
- Go to the mall and take a stroll indoors.
- Do seated exercises at home.
- Dance together to favorite music.
- Garden or do other routine activities that both people enjoy.
- Eat well.
Heart-healthy eating patterns, such as the Mediterranean diet, are good for overall health and may help protect the brain. A Mediterranean diet includes relatively little red meat and emphasizes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, olive oil and other healthy fats. Try new recipes and involve the person with dementia.
Caregiving Can Be Overwhelming! You are not alone.
For more information, contact The Alzheimer’s Association at 402-502-4300, 1941 S. 42nd St., Omaha.
Viv Ewing, Ph.D., is president of The Alzheimer’s Association Midlands Chapter.