Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
By Greg Pascucci
As our country continues to grapple with the global pandemic, we have become increasingly aware of the impact of isolation and other precautionary measures needed to lessen the spread of this virus. For those actively caring for an aging loved one, juggling care needs while worrying about needed safeguards is even more challenging during this time.
In many cases, the demands of caring for a loved one can become overwhelming. Caregivers can become physically and emotionally drained and may feel alone. These symptoms often lead to high stress and eventual burnout or other serious health issues.
A family caregiver entrenched in the strain of providing daily care does not always realize that day-to-day pressures may affect their own health and well-being as well as impact the lives of those around them. This month, in honor of National Family Caregivers Month, it is especially important for caregivers to be aware of the physical, mental and emotional toll caregiving can have if they neglect themselves. Elderly spouses serving as caregivers, for example, have been found to experience higher rates of influenza and pneumonia.
Here are a few tips for balancing being a dutiful caregiver and taking care of your own needs:
Take care of yourself
Although self-care is one of the most important things we can do, it’s often the most forgotten when it comes to caregiving. It’s critical to remember, however, that when your needs are taken care of, your loved one will benefit as well. Be sure to keep your doctor’s appointments and schedule annual screenings. Try to eat well and rest whenever possible.
Ask for help
It’s okay to ask a family member to fill in whenever possible. It doesn’t make you selfish to ask someone to help out for a few hours so that you’re able to take a break; it makes you human. Knowing your own personal limitations is essential to caring for a family member.
Seek out support groups
It’s always nice to know that you’re not alone. Find a support group specific to your situation. Local churches, hospitals and senior living communities may offer ongoing support groups for both those dealing with an illness and their caregiver. There are also virtual opportunities and online groups to help connect with others.
Set realistic goals
The Mayo Clinic suggests breaking large tasks into smaller steps that you can do one at a time. Prioritize, make lists and establish a daily routine. Sample caregiver action plans are available online to help you establish clear, attainable goals.
Entrust the care of your loved one to a professional
The team at reputable and well-established senior living communities understands the stress and emotional toll caregiving can create. They strive to help caregiving spouses flourish while easing day-to-day caregiver responsibilities.
The Carlisle Naples offers independent and assisted living lifestyle options and is especially suited for older adults serving in a caregiving role. Their spouses receive 24-hour access to a team of well-trained professionals and assistance with activities of daily living (bathing, dressing, medication assistance, etc.). And, without the day-to-day burdens of providing care, the couple now has more time to spend on what matters most: enjoying quality time together.
The Carlisle is also CARF-accredited, which is similar to a five-star rating in the hospitality industry. The community’s Extended Congregate Care (ECC) license, which is held in conjunction with the standard assisted living licensure, ensures staff is able to provide additional supportive and nursing services to residents who would otherwise need to transition to a skilled nursing facility.
“It’s important for caregivers to take care of themselves in order to avoid caregiver burnout,” said The Carlisle’s Executive Director Bill Diamond. “Often, it requires asking yourself if there are potential health or safety concerns if you continue alone. For many family members, the answer is yes which often prompts them to connect with a senior community. They may be surprised to see how much mom or dad thrives after moving to a community such as The Carlisle. There’s an entire team dedicated to their health and wellness, activities to stay engaged, friends and neighbors for socializing and variety of amenities and services, including gourmet dining. It truly becomes a win-win for everyone.”
Located at 6945 Carlisle Court in Naples, The Carlisle offers independent and assisted living lifestyles featuring spacious one-and two-bedroom residences, weekly housekeeping and flat linen services, basic cable TV, all utilities except telephone, and delicious dining with daily, chef-prepared specials—all on an affordable monthly fee basis. The community is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), an important distinction that provides residents with the assurance that the highest standards of quality care, services and safeguards are maintained. For more information, please call 239-221-0017 or visit www.TheCarlisleNaples.com.
The Carlisle
Luxury Rental Retirement Living
6945 Carlisle Court, Naples, FL 34109
239-221-0017 . www.TheCarlisleNaples.com
