If you’re caring for your elderly parents here and around the Triangle, you may be an unintended target for depression or a host of other stress-related problems if you don’t take adequate care of yourself. Many caregivers fall ill to viruses and other infections and also have elevated blood levels that may lead to chronic health issues such as heart disease, sleep apnea and hypertension. It is a sobering fact that 80 percent of the long-term care in the United States is done by close friends and family. If you are a caregiver and family included in this category, you’ve probably given up enjoyable vacations, job transfer opportunities, hobbies, friends and even your own savings for your elderly parents and family members.

There are times when help and support are really needed. Your Next Move can provide assistance and support anywhere in the Triangle.  You have to take care of yourself. It is essential. You’ll be in a much better position to take care of your elderly family when you are energized and focused. But many caregivers don’t want to ask for help because they feel that it’s their singular duty to care for the individual. Many believe no one else can do as good a job as they can. But not asking for help will often lead to your health and mental burn-out.

3 invaluable tips for every caregiver:

• Hire an in-home aide for three hours a day, once a week: Caregivers need to make sure they are taking care of their backs (from the heavy lifting and carrying), and having an aide will help alleviate some of this extra physical stress.
  

• Take proactive steps to stop neglecting yourself: Use the buddy system for exercise, eating better and social activities. The buddy system also works for chores around the house. Be specific with the friend and outline exactly where you need the help. Do you need to be driven to the gym? Do you need help clipping coupons, wrapping presents, or mowing the lawn?
  

• Stop feeling overwhelmed: Always consider breaking the big “to do’s” into smaller parts. Schedule appointments ahead of time and tell yourself you will call the doctor for a mammogram or colonoscopy at a certain date and time. Writing it down is often great therapy. Plan on arranging care your elderly family while you run errands or pick up prescriptions. Put things into a day calendar.

Remember that asking for help is a show of strength, not weakness. Help can come in the form of neighbors, friends, loved ones, fraternal and alumni associations, U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, the local Center on Aging, community transportation services, and many more.

We can help.

Contact Your Next Move today to help you with these life changing transitions. We are there at your side.

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This blog post is brought to you by the team at Your Next Move. If you are interested in further information you may contact us below. LIKE us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to get the most current communication on the subject of senior relocation.  Please join our mailing list.

Your Next Move, Easing Your Senior Transition

Julie Kopetsky, President

www.yournextmovenc.com
919-601-8203 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting  end_of_the_skype_highlighting

Julie.kopetsky@yournextmovenc.com

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