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As a caregiver, what helps you the most?

Posted by canadaanne @canadaanne, Mar 27 7:47am

What do you do to help your own wellbeing? What has helped, and what hasn’t?

I know it is important to look after myself so I can give the best care I can. I also know that at times everything feels so overwhelming that I don’t want to do anything.
I have found my daily walks with my dog help. I’m thankful that I have to do this - even on days when I don’t want to go, I feel better having done so.
Massage - I have a great RMT who told me my only job while having a massage was to just breathe. The hour or so of just focusing on breathing very therapeutic, aside from the benefit of the actual massage.
The love and support of family and friends has also helped me - whether it a quick phone call or text, or a visit or walk.
Chatting with people online in the forums here has also been helpful.

Take care all. It’s a journey none of us want to be on, but here we are.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Caregivers Support Group.

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mlhaeger | @mlhaeger | 3 days ago
In reply to @caldiana13 "@cjme Oh, my goodness! You hit a nerve in me. It’s like a dentist that hits..." + (show)
Profile picture for caldiana13 @caldiana13

@cjme Oh, my goodness! You hit a nerve in me. It’s like a dentist that hits an aching tooth while probing your mouth. You said, “They have no concept because they have never been challenged by burdens that steal your free time.” Hello??? Wake up friends and family. If I hear one more person tell me that I need to remember that caregivers need care too, I’m going to scream. They say this from afar and then walk away. As my dear husband becomes less capable, I have to be more capable. Mornings start early, often before 6 AM. My plans to take time for myself to shower or watch some of my favorite programs in the evening had to be scrapped three times this week. The evenings didn’t end until after 8:30 PM when my husband was tucked in bed and I finally felt like I was off duty. One night it was 9:15 PM. Thank you for listening to my rant. All of you are saying the same thing. If you haven’t walked this road that we have been given to travel, you do not even have a clue. If you are a friend or family member, offer a meal. Come sit with my LO while I shower and wash my hair. Bring by a small bouquet of flowers or sit for 10 or 15 minutes. Open yourself to listening to what I and others are struggling with. Just let me know I am not alone.

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@caldiana13 Amen

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