During this first month of the New Year, many of us have made new year’s resolutions or intentions or wishes or set goals. How is it going for you?
It’s important to remember why you are setting these intentions. That makes it easier to continue striving toward our goals and objectives.
As caregivers, sharing much of our time and attention caring for others. how do we age gracefully? What must we do to focus on our own self care and self expression?
Getting adequate rest, including some form of exercise and eating a nutritious diet make a difference in our lives. Try new foods, grains, berries, fruits and dark green vegetables. Experiment with various cooking methods.
As we are caring for others, we can imagine and determine how to make definite changes to avoid some of the health issues our loves ones encounter. Have you scheduled your annual exams? Did you keep the appointments? What about legal documents? Are they in order? Have they been filed?
Statistics show that nearly 66 % of all Americans over the age of 60 have hypertension which can easily lead to strokes, diabetes and heart attacks. Caring for a loved one can be stressful. Stress is a major contributor to these diseases. Time outs and time management are crucial for caregivers.
Find some leisure activities. If watching television is an outlet for you. Make it work to your advantage. Ride a stationary bike during your favorite show. Move during the commercials. Take the time to nurture that hobby that you have been longing for. We all have special gifts and talents. Put them to good use.
Find activities that light up your life. Perhaps it’s a dance class, pottery, painting, writing, bowling, tennis. Pursue it. Make it a goal, an objective, an intention.
Listen to some of your favorite music and sing along. This is a wonderful stress reducer. Make it your personal party.
Face your fears. Know what’s reasonable and what is out of your control. Engage with others. There are many caregivers who want to share experiences other than their day-to-day caregiver responsibilities. It’s a way to meet and make new friends.
Congratulate yourself often for all that you do. Others depend on you. You are making a difference in their lives and in your life and the life of other family members who benefit from the care you are providing for your loved one.
Show gratitude and appreciation. Accept support and assistance from others. Be gentle with yourself. Feel good about feeling good and know that you are making a difference.
Let’s make this the year for Aging Gracefully because Caregivers need care too. Get the support you deserve from New Beginnings because caregivers need care too.