Take Time for Yourself
You've heard it before...A healthy, well-rested caregiver is an effective caregiver. Sometimes, we put everyone else's needs before our own.
Realize that taking a break from caregiving is as important as caregiving. It allows you to recharge and cope with the daily challenges that spring up. But, how? Who will take care of my loved one?
There are a few options available to you.
Adult Day Care. Sign up for specialized day care, designed to engage those with dementia. A regular schedule can be beneficial for your loved one, giving them a sense of purpose and something to look forward to.
Caregiver Support Groups
. Knowing that there are others who are navigating a similar caregiving journey can be comforting. Join and attend a support group meeting with other caregivers. Ask questions, share experiences, seek resources or just absorb the support available. We have a meeting or you can
find another meeting near you
.
Help for Caregivers Fact Sheet. Take care of yourself by eating well, getting plenty of rest and exercising daily. The USC Family Caregiver Center provided this fact sheet with tips to ask for help and engage others to assist you.
The above programs can be helpful, but do require advanced planning. If you just need a morning out of the house, bring your loved one to
Memory Mornings events (twice monthly) specially designed for those with dementia and their care partners presented by Alzheimer's Greater Los Angeles.
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