Taking time for self-care is crucial as a caregiver
Your well-being is just as important as the care you provide
Written by |
If you have ever flown on an airplane, you have likely heard the flight attendant review the safety instructions. You were probably half-listening as you settled into your tiny seat, undoubtedly sitting next to a person with a severe cough and no mask. The attendants go through all the details of what to do in an emergency, and they always remind us to put on our own oxygen masks first before assisting others.
The idea of helping ourselves before we help others is an important reminder that we must care for ourselves before we can effectively care for those around us. This can be applied to many aspects of life, including caregiving.
I unofficially became a caregiver when my husband, Arman, was diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s disease about 15 years ago. At that time, I had no idea what caregiving would involve, and in the very early stages of Parkinson’s, Arman didn’t need much help.
Slowly, over time, as his Parkinson’s symptoms have changed and progressed, so has my role as his caregiver. I know that as time marches on, my caregiving duties will continue to evolve and expand. But just like life with Parkinson’s, my future as a caregiver is unpredictable.
Over the years, I have come to realize the importance of caring for myself, as well as for Arman. It can be challenging to make time for myself, especially when juggling a career, the typical demands of daily living, and caring for a loved one. But it is vital for us as caregivers to carve out some time each day to tend to our own needs, if possible.
Self-care practices for caregivers
A caregiver support group is a great way to care for your mental well-being. Engaging with others in a similar situation can make the journey feel more manageable. The shared experiences and unique stories of the members of my monthly online group, all of whom care for a spouse with Parkinson’s, have been a source of comfort and camaraderie for me.
Exercise is another way to care for your body and mind. Keeping your body strong is crucial when caring for a person with Parkinson’s. My husband often requires assistance standing from a seated position, which can strain my body if I am unprepared. Because of this, my goal is to exercise five days a week, working on strength training to best assist Arman without injuring myself. After I complete my workout, I feel mentally uplifted, which is a fun bonus!
Cozying up with a good book, fashion magazine, or even a tabloid magazine is an excellent way to relax your mind and body. Even if it’s only for 15 minutes each night before bed, reading has a way of calming me. In addition to traditional, physical books, I enjoy listening to audiobooks on car trips or even while I am cooking. This grants me many opportunities to squeeze in “reading,” even on the busiest days.
Tending to my own physical and mental health, in addition to caring for my husband, has been challenging for me. Over the past few years, I have come to realize the importance of making time for self-care every day. Doing so not only keeps me physically healthy, but it also helps me remain patient, attentive, and able to handle my caregiving responsibilities. I’m able to maintain a positive mindset, which benefits Arman, our family, and, of course, me.
Caregivers, always remember the oxygen mask metaphor and give yourself some TLC from time to time. You deserve it for all that you do for your loved one. Your well-being is just as important as the care you provide.
Note: Parkinson’s News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Parkinson’s News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Parkinson’s disease.
Leave a comment
Fill in the required fields to post. Your email address will not be published.