As the family caregiver of an aging loved one, you’re used to giving and sacrificing. You know how much difference you are making in the final years of your loved one and most likely, they appreciate how much you do for them.
Caregiving is a wonderfully rewarding decision, but it can also add stress to your life and block out some of the important things and activities you used to do to enjoy yourself. With the new year right around the corner, take this January 1 to make a resolution or two that brings back some of that missing joy in your life. By making a resolution to care more for yourself in 2023, you’ll be amazed at how much better you’ll care for others.
Here are just a few suggestions to look at for your 2023 New Year’s Resolutions:
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help from Elder Care
In 2023, make it the year to ask for help when you need it. Having someone else come into the home to provide elder care can be a wonderful way to give you a little extra breathing space. And your loved one might also enjoy having someone new to provide elder care as it will allow him to make a new connection. Elder care providers can help with household chores that your aging loved one can no longer do, or they can provide social companionship, giving you the opportunity to have a little alone time.
Schedule Respite Time
Elder Care in Broomfield CO
2023 will be a great year to intentionally schedule some alone time. This isn’t time that is meant for cleaning your own home or taking care of those old emails, no this should be some time where you spend time doing what you love. It should be a time that lets you quietly reflect (unless you love a rock concert – then, by all means, make that your alone time), and focus on what brings you joy. It can be as simple as a nap in a hammock all afternoon, or a visit to your favorite art exhibit. If it makes you happy, it counts.
Reprioritize Your Commitments
As a caregiver, you can’t be expected to do it all. Let 2023 be the year you let some things fall off your plate. Is there a committee that you’re on that you just don’t have a passion for anymore? Then let them know you’d like to resign. While making and serving a fresh, hot meal every night is nice, if it’s adding too much burden, look at ordering out once a week, or having another family member be responsible for dinner.
Learn to Say No
No is one of the hardest words to use. In 2023, use your voice to say No to things you don’t want to do. When you say ‘No’ to the right things, it opens up the opportunity to say ‘Yes’ to the important things. If you are concerned that saying yes to doing things for yourself means leaving your senior alone or vulnerable, elder care can be there to ease those fears. Having an elder care provider visit with your senior on a regular basis allows you time to do the things you want and the peace of mind to know that your senior is safe.
Best of luck in 2023. May you learn to care for yourself as much as others.
If You Or An Aging Loved One is Considering Elder Care in Broomfield, CO, Please Contact The Caring Staff At Assisting Hands Home Care Today! 720-780-7755.
