Taking care of yourself, caregivers, is one of the most important things for you to do every day. Think of what will happen to your loved one if you are not well. Being a caregiver can be quite challenging and a stressful place to find yourself each day of the week. Caregivers also describe their role as very meaningful. Here are a few of the many rewards that you may experience when caring for a loved one:
You may gain new skills.
You may learn to be more organized and to plan ahead.
You may learn to speak your concerns and needs more clearly.
You may discover strength and skills you did not know you had.
You may develop new and lasting friendships.
Accomplish more and feel less alone when you connect with others who face the same challenges. Caregivers benefit by sharing their concerns, information, and solutions with others.
Caregiving is an opportunity to say, “Thank you. You are valuable to me. I love you. I care about you. I will be here for you.”
You can learn about taking care of yourself, too. Breathe, drink lots of water, nourish your body, sleep, move your body, laugh, write in a journal, meditate and/or visualize, and give yourself some credit.
“So many of our dreams seem impossible, then they seem improbable, and soon they become inevitable” —Christopher Reeve
Some suggested resources:
American Parkinson Disease Association, Southern AZ, 520-326-5400
Alzheimer’s Association, Southwest Chapter, 520-322-6601
Pinal Gila Council for Senior Services, 520-836-2758
Senior Village at SaddleBrooke, 520-314-1042
If you have any questions, call Esta Goldstein at 520-825-1181 or email [email protected].
Our meetings will resume on Oct. 14, Nov. 14, and Dec. 9.