Attention Chicago Family Caregivers: Try These Holiday Stress Reducers

chicago family caregiversAs a family caregiver, we at Independence-4-Seniors Home Care know that there’s a lot on your plate all year long, but doubly so during the holidays. At this time of the year, stress has a tendency to pile up, and too much stress can have unhealthy consequences. If you’re feeling overwhelmed this holiday season, follow these tips to make sure you're keeping your stress level manageable and having fun!

  • Eat right!
    The holidays are already notorious for overeating, but when you’re stressed out, you may tend to overeat even more. When you’re exhausted, it’s easy to resort to whatever is handy; quick snack foods, tea and toast, cheese doodles and soda. You need high quality food to perform well. Keep healthy snacks, like carrot sticks or fruit, around the house for when you need something quick to munch on.
  • Get regular exercise.
    Exercise is the original “feel good” tonic. It helps you sleep better and wake up fresh and ready to face a jam-packed day. Regular exercise improves both your mental and physical wellbeing, keeping your mind alert and body fine-tuned and energetic.
  • Catch some z’s.
    This may be easier said than done, especially if you’re caring for someone who tends to wander at night. Still, most people need six to eight hours of sleep a night to maintain good health. If you need some extra help with a senior loved one at night, contact Independence-4-Seniors Home Care to learn how our home care services can help you get some much needed rest.
  • Take time out for yourself.
    Whether you’re caring for a parent, spouse, or other relative or friend, you need time for yourself. You need outside interests, other people, and a way to escape from the constant pressure of caregiving. It’s easy to let friendships lag when you have important things to do, but friends can get you through some tough times, just by being there.
  • Consider joining a support group.
    If you feel alone and isolated in your role as caregiver, talk to other caregivers. They’ll know what you’re up against; they’ll understand where you’re coming from. Think of it as therapeutic socializing—you’re not actually escaping from your role as caregiver. 

A strong support network is always the greatest protection against stress. With trusted friends and family members, or with a caregiving team like Independence-4-Seniors Home Care, the stress of the holidays won’t seem as overwhelming. If you need help combating stress during the holiday season or if you would like to know more about how respite care can help, contact Indepdence-4-Seniors today.