Experiencing an illness is difficult. Caring for someone who is chronically or terminally ill can be overwhelming.
Being a caregiver changes home and family dynamics. Financial worries can add to the stress. The time and energy demands may seem endless. Caregivers often put the other person's needs ahead of their own.
These elements may lead to caregiver burnout. The situation can become unhealthy for both caregiver and recipient. Recognizing and reducing signs of stress are key.
Learn about the person's illness. The more you know, the better able you will be to care for them.
Talk about your feelings. Join a caregiver support group, talk to a counselor or vent to a friend.
Take care of yourself. Getting proper nutrition, sleep and exercise can keep you healthy and buoyant.
Find ways to relax. Techniques such as yoga, meditation, tai chi or deep breathing can relieve stress. So can rewarding yourself with a massage, a good book or an outing with friends.
When all else fails, laugh!
Positive, proactive techniques reduce stress and make your caregiving efforts more beneficial to yourself and your loved one. Above all, don't lose your sense of humor. Laughter helps to relax muscles, relieve pain and boost the immune system.
Yes, laughter really can be the best medicine … for patient and caregiver alike!
Non-profit Hospice of the North Coast provides a full spectrum of programs, including bereavement support, to terminally ill clients and their families throughout North County. For more information, please visit
www.hospicenorthcoast.org.
Being a caregiver changes home and family dynamics. Financial worries can add to the stress. The time and energy demands may seem endless. Caregivers often put the other person's needs ahead of their own.
These elements may lead to caregiver burnout. The situation can become unhealthy for both caregiver and recipient. Recognizing and reducing signs of stress are key.
Learn about the person's illness. The more you know, the better able you will be to care for them.
Talk about your feelings. Join a caregiver support group, talk to a counselor or vent to a friend.
Take care of yourself. Getting proper nutrition, sleep and exercise can keep you healthy and buoyant.
Find ways to relax. Techniques such as yoga, meditation, tai chi or deep breathing can relieve stress. So can rewarding yourself with a massage, a good book or an outing with friends.
When all else fails, laugh!
Positive, proactive techniques reduce stress and make your caregiving efforts more beneficial to yourself and your loved one. Above all, don't lose your sense of humor. Laughter helps to relax muscles, relieve pain and boost the immune system.
Yes, laughter really can be the best medicine … for patient and caregiver alike!
Non-profit Hospice of the North Coast provides a full spectrum of programs, including bereavement support, to terminally ill clients and their families throughout North County. For more information, please visit
www.hospicenorthcoast.org.