Caring for yourself is one of the most important – and often one of the most forgotten – things you can do as a family caregiver. When your needs are taken care of, the person you care for will benefit too.

Researchers know a lot about the effects that giving care has on health and well-being. They predict that a combination of loss, prolonged stress, the physical demands of care giving, and the biological vulnerabilities that come with age place you at risk of significant health problems as well as an earlier death.

Older caregivers are not the only ones who put their health and well-being at risk. If you have assumed a caregiver role for your parents while simultaneously juggling work and raising adolescent children, you face an increased risk of depression, chronic illness and a possible decline in quality of life.

Despite these risks, family caregivers of any age are less likely than non-caregivers to practise preventive healthcare and self-care behaviour.

You cannot stop the impact of a chronic or progressive illness or a debilitating injury on someone for whom you care. But there is a great deal that you can do to take responsibility for your personal well-being. Ask yourself what good will you be to the person you care for if you become ill or if you die?

Recognise warning signs early. These might include irritability, sleep problems and forgetfulness. Know your own warning signs and act to make changes.

Identify sources of stress. Stress reducers can be simple activities like walking, gardening, meditation or having coffee with a friend. Take a break from care giving. Get help with care giving tasks like bathing and preparing meals. Engage in activities that will make you feel healthier.

Seniors Helping Seniors In-home Services can provide a variety of services designed to help seniors remain independent. Seniors Helping Seniors In-home Services match active seniors who can provide a service in the community to other seniors who would benefit from receiving those services. This matching is carried out in the best possible way in order to match personalities and activity levels and to encourage a strong friendship that is developed as seniors complete various activities throughout the day together. It’s like getting a little help from your friends.

Don’t wait until you are overwhelmed or your health fails. Reaching out for help when you need it is a sign of personal strength. Discuss your health with a doctor. While caregivers will discuss their loved ones’ care with the physician, caregivers seldom talk about their own health, which is equally important.

Remember that it is not selfish to focus on your own needs and desires when you are a caregiver – it’s an important part of the job. Seek supportive counselling when you need it or talk to a trusted friend or priest.

For more information contact Simon Fiorini Lowell at care@fiorinilowell.com or call on 2738 3161.