How to Find Space for Yourself as a Caregiver
As a loved one’s dementia progresses, they may require more care. Though it can be hard, finding space and time to care for yourself as a caregiver is equally important to prevent burnout. Here are some tips to keep in touch with your emotions and balance your own needs.
1. Take Time for Check-Ins
Self-care can start as easily as a 30-second check-in with yourself. How are you feeling today? What happened to cause those emotions? Is there something that you want, or something that would make your day better?
Even if the day is too busy for a long break, being aware of your own mental state helps you process and adapt to these feelings so you can focus. Then, when things calm down, you can plan ways to change your everyday routine to do more things that make you happy.
2. Arrange for Respite Services
Every caregiver deserves time off. Respite services can give you a much-needed break by arranging for someone else to take care of your loved one temporarily. This can be as simple as a relative watching over your loved one for an afternoon, or as inclusive as an adult day care or long-term care community. The important part is that you take the time you need to recover, so you can come back refreshed and happy.
Not sure where to look for trusted respite services? Boston ElderINFO can help you find local providers, tailored to your needs. Get in touch by calling 617-292-6211, or submitting a referral online.
3. Rely on the Community
They say it takes a village to raise a child – the same is true when it comes to caring for family members who need additional help. Many communities offer locally organized activities and services for older adults and individuals with disabilities, such as meal services, neighbor check-ins, walking groups, and social clubs.
Check in with your local community center, senior center, churches, and city office to see if any programs are available in your area. Beyond taking some weight off your shoulders, you may also meet new friends and fellow caregivers!
For dementia caregivers in Codman Square and Jamaica Plain, the City of Boston Age Strong Commission holds monthly Dementia Cafes. These are safe spaces for individuals with memory loss, as well as their loved ones and care partners, to participate in meaningful and joyful programming while connecting with the community.
Memory Cafes are held on:
- The second Wednesday of each month (Codman Square)
- 10AM – 12 PM, Boston Public Library Codman Square Branch
- The last Monday of each month (Jamaica Plain)
To learn more or RSVP, contact Corinne White from Age Strong at 617-635-3745 or [email protected].
4. Join a Caregiver Support Group
Caregiving is a unique experience, and even other family members may not fully understand the challenges you face every day. When you need to speak to someone else who understands, caregiver support groups are there as a safe space where you can talk about your feelings.
Boston Senior Home Care offers both in-person and online support groups at different times of the week, so there’s something to fit everyone’s schedule.
Support groups are held on:
- Mondays (9-10 AM)
- Tuesdays (7-8 PM)
- Thursdays (12-1 PM, biweekly)
We also offer separate support groups for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren:
- Tuesdays (6:30 – 8 PM, every other week)
- Fridays (10 AM – 12 PM, 1st and 3rd Fridays)
Contact [email protected] to learn more and sign up.
5. Explore Solitary Hobbies
As dementia progresses, it may cause pressure to spend every waking moment with your loved one and be on duty 24/7. But constant stress and focus will lead to burn out and frustration.
While it might not be possible to leave your loved one home alone, simply finding something they can do with minimal supervision in the same room can give you some time to rest and recharge.
Some examples could be:
- Listening to old music
- Watching classic movies
- Reading a book
- Coloring
- Folding towels
- Bird watching outside
Even if it’s as short as 15 minutes, a hobby that your loved one can enjoy alone gives them and you a much-needed break.