Every family caregiver is likely to experience stressful situations at some point. Although stress cannot be eliminated completely, there are some ways to control it. If not properly managed, stress could lead to depression, heart disease, and other serious health conditions. Here are some unique and interesting ways to manage caregiver stress. shared by the experts offering high-quality home care Tucson families can trust.
1. Massage Your Earlobes
Rubbing pressure points can calm a caregiver’s mind. Most caregivers massage their foreheads because it is a common thing to do. However, rubbing the forehead can cause additional stress. Instead, massage the inside of your earlobes and work your way to the outside. Massaging your earlobes can lead to a renewed state of peace within minutes.
Consider hiring a professional caregiver if you need a break from your caregiving duties to relax and reduce stress. Tucson respite care professionals can assist seniors with a wide array of daily tasks, offering family caregivers the chance to focus on other personal responsibilities or take a break to prevent burnout. Whether it’s for a few hours a day or a few days a week, respite care is the perfect solution for family caregivers who are feeling overwhelmed.
2. Pull Out the Play-Doh
Play-Doh has a role similar to that of a stress ball, with a fun and unique twist. When you grab the Play-Doh or begin to make objects with it, you can tap into your subconscious, which may relax your mind. You can also try Mohdoh, which has the same effect as Play-Doh, along with the benefits of aromatherapy.
3. Enjoy a Movie Marathon
Whenever family caregivers feel stressed and burned out, they should watch a couple of movies from their childhood. Having a movie marathon can put a smile on your face, and the healthy dose of nostalgia you receive when watching old films may put you in a better mood almost instantly.
4. Have a Solo Dance Party
Marching to the beat of your own drums can alleviate caregiver stress and boost your energy levels. If you have the time, play your favorite song when dancing. Even a few minutes of dancing could brighten your day. The next time you feel overwhelmed from your duties or fear the outcome of your loved one’s medical exam, take a little break and dance by yourself. Your body will begin to release positive endorphins that fight against stress hormones.
Caring for a senior loved one can be a stressful task. Families who need additional assistance caring for an elderly loved one should consider hiring a professional caregiver. Tucson, AZ, seniors and their families trust in Home Care Assistance to provide high-quality in-home care on an as-needed basis. Our caregivers take pride in helping seniors remain healthy while promoting their quality of life.
5. Drink Orange Juice
Most people drink orange juice at breakfast, but family caregivers should have a glass whenever they feel overwhelmed. Orange juice contains nutrients that reduce anxiety. The vitamin C found in orange juice can immediately lower stress hormones, including cortisol. You don’t have to drink a lot of orange juice each day. Two glasses per day is generally enough to lower anxiety levels.
6. Blow Up a Balloon
Inflating a balloon requires you to take deep breaths that divert your attention from your caregiving duties. Instead of thinking about what has gone wrong, you can find joy in blowing up the balloon. It will give you a feeling of self-accomplishment while putting a smile on your face and alleviating stress.
Caring for a senior loved one can be challenging for families who don’t have expertise or professional training in home care, but this challenge doesn’t have to be faced alone. Family caregivers can turn to Tucson Home Care Assistance for the help they need. We provide high-quality live-in and respite care as well as comprehensive Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care. To create a customized in-home care plan for your aging loved one, give us a call at (520) 276-6555 today.