Caregiving is growing in the United States as seniors enjoy longer lifespans. Approximately 12 million family members care for an aging adult. Although caregiving is filled with ups and downs, caregivers can find plenty of happiness in this demanding yet highly rewarding role.
The regular support from families allows their elderly loved ones to age in place. It is less costly and more satisfying for seniors to live in the comfort of home than a facility. They receive help traveling to doctors’ appointments, managing their medications, and staying on top of their finances.
What are the potential pitfalls of caregiving?
But when family caregivers divert all their attention and energy into caregiving, they are likely to neglect their own needs for self-care. The risk for burnout, declining health, and frustration can ensue when caregivers fail to routinely make time or effort to engage in essential self-care tasks.
Furthermore, it’s easy for overwhelmed caregivers to lose sight of the big picture. They are too busy preparing meals, serving as drivers, monitoring the senior’s health and safety, and handling unanticipated everyday obstacles. Caregivers feel they are “in the weeds” while performing little daily tasks.
They lose sight of the joys of caregiving and the love, respect, and admiration for an elderly loved one who relies on their support. By finding joy in each day of caregiving, family caregivers have more chances of connecting with the aging person to whom they are dedicated to serving.
Does finding happiness enhance caregiving?
Daily moments of happiness are a survival tactic. Every instance of joy refills the caregiver’s well so that they feel motivated to provide care another day. Fun times with a senior have the power to relieve stress and boredom—and, most importantly, inspire irreplaceable feelings of connection.
It is undeniable that at times caregiving can be tough. But along with the challenges are memorable moments and those of incomparable warmth. Caregivers who are attuned to these joy-filled moments allow themselves to feel comfort in the future and make memories to reflect upon fondly.
How do caregivers find happiness in their role?
Caregivers can find joy in the smallest, everyday moments with their aging loved one. Everything from nature to movies and scrapbooks to the holidays can ignite a sense of appreciation for their time with the senior. Even once joy is savored, it’s important to keep making more happy moments.
1. Scrapbooks
Seniors enjoy reminiscing with a caregiver, leafing through old photos or scrapbooks. Add to the collage of photos by taking new ones or share them on social media. If the senior does not have a scrapbook, assemble one together. The project brings happiness to both the senior and caregiver.
2. Nature
Being in nature is awe-inspiring. Share an afternoon of wonder by taking a stroll through a local garden with the senior. When flowers are in bloom, place a bouquet on the dining room table. During the autumn season, drive with the senior through the picturesque rows of crimson trees.
3. Music
Catchy rhythms and soulful tunes are not only a joy to listen to but energizing. Stream the senior’s favorite music, whether that includes 1940s swing or rock ‘n roll. Music is a welcome distraction, even reducing the senior’s anxiety and pain. Dancing or singing to the music makes wonderful memories.
4. Exercise
Physical activities are a joyful experience. Regardless of the older adult’s physical ability level, caregivers can create moments of connection through exercise. Toss a ball, go swimming, or simply walk to the mailbox. As the endorphins get going, the senior’s and caregiver’s mood elevates.
5. Errands
Adventures can be experienced even during the most mundane errands. When traveling to a doctor’s appointment, take the scenic route. Shopping must be preceded with coffee from the drive-thru and dining out is always better in the company of a fun friend.
6. Celebrations
Celebrate whenever possible and boost feelings of unbridled joy. Birthdays, anniversaries, and the first day of spring deserve festive celebrations. Decorate the senior’s room to inspire a celebratory mood. Rejoice in small and large accomplishments, like having a bath or being discharged from the hospital.
7. Grandkids
The faces of grandparents light up when their grandkids visit. Try to bring different generations together to make precious memories, participate in favorite activities, or simply share insights about life. Family gatherings can be profound sources of happiness for the elderly.
Engaging in activities like these can inspire greater joy in seniors and their caregivers. Seeing an aging loved one smile or laugh is priceless and gives the caregiver positive memories to reflect upon when caregiving responsibilities become overwhelming or challenging.
By staying committed to being a trusted caregiver, families help their elderly loved ones lead enriching lives. When families are unable to provide continual, hands-on care, Assisting Hands Home Care is a valuable resource. We provide quality companion care and respite care in the comfort of home.
Companion caregivers from our reputable home care agency nurture meaningful relationships with the seniors we serve. We initiate pleasant conversations, join them in leisure activities and play card games. We drive them to local destinations to keep them connected with their community.
Assisting Hands Home Care professionals go the extra mile to build positive relationships with care recipients. As caregivers who are always ready to listen, we foster an open dialogue. Older adults receive extra attention and uninterrupted care from our respite caregivers, too.
Care responsibilities include help with the activities of daily living. We prepare healthy meals, shop for fresh groceries, provide timely medication reminders and perform light housekeeping to maintain a hygienic home environment. Caregivers also assist with personal care tasks, like bathing and toileting.
Companionship from Assisting Hands Home Care supports the social needs of seniors and allows them to live independently. Older adults in Collegeville, King of Prussia, Limerick, Norristown, West Norriton, and the surrounding areas are encouraged to schedule a free in-home consult and see how senior home care will be a benefit. Call us today at (610) 541-2515.