Day in and day out, caregiving is hard. You may do so much for your parents and never get thanked. Your parent may insult you or say you should go away and never return. It’s always going to be challenging.
What you don’t want to do is have those challenging days overwhelm you. You need to find ways to feel joy every day. You want to find that moment of happiness on a rough day.
Here are six ways to accomplish this.
Look for One Positive Thing Every Day
Even on the worst day, look for one positive thing. Your mom argued with you from the moment she got up. She refused to eat, take her medications, or get in the shower. You’re frustrated and ready to cry.
While this is going on, you hear your dad say he couldn’t live without you. Focus on his praise. That positive thing could be a new bird you see at the feeder or a rose that’s just bloomed. Make sure you find one positive thing each day.
Learn Something New
Change your daily routine by learning something new. With many online courses that don’t cost a penny, it’s easy to find something you can learn. Sign up for a free photography class or watch YouTube videos that teach you how to knit.
Perform One Daily Act of Kindness
Every day, perform one act of kindness. It could be baking something special for your parent as a surprise or paying for a stranger’s coffee when you take your dad out. You may never get thanked personally, but you know that one act has changed a person’s day.
Start a Journal
When you learn something new, perform an act of kindness, or find something positive each day, write about it. Keep a journal online or in a notebook. On a bad day, return to that journal and read about all the joyful experiences you have had.
Take 15 Minutes to Meditate Every Day
If you manage stress and anxiety, you’ll feel better. Practice meditation for 15 minutes every day. Find a video that teaches deep breathing. Instructional Yoga and Tai Chi videos are a good way to start. Once you understand how deep, relaxation breathing works, take 15 minutes every day to meditate.
Always Put Self-Care First
After months or years of providing the care your parent needs, you may feel down. Caregiver burnout is real and hard to avoid. The best way to stay positive is by making sure you never ignore self-care.
Professional caregiver services help you turn the focus on your own emotional and physical needs. Go for a walk, keep your medical appointments, and have time to yourself. Call our caregiver specialist and ask about respite care.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Caregiver Services in Medfield MA, or anywhere in Eastern Massachusetts, please call the caring staff at CARE Resolutions – (508) 906-5572.
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