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Senior News December, 2004 Vol. 25. No. 12
Published by the Humboldt Senior Resource Center in Eureka, California. HSRC is a non-profit community-based organization offering services for senior citizens, multi-generational families and caregivers.
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Humboldt Senior Resource Center Back issues Table of Contents
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Coping with stress - tips for caregivers this holiday by Jamie Kerr We all experience stress at some time in our lives, but caring for a person with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia can carry with it stresses of its own. While some stress is important for a person's growth - providing challenge, stimulating alertness, and nurturing creativity - too much stress can take its toll on both mental and physical well-being. As a caregiver, it is important to take care of yourself, to find that delicate balance between just enough stress to stimulate life, but not so much as to overwhelm it. Here are some ideas that may help you get started in managing your own stress: Reduce caffeine intake Studies have shown that caffeine can increase levels of stress hormones, and these increases may persist all day long until bedtime. Try a glass of water instead. Take along some healthy food If you've got some healthy food with you, you won't suffer the consequences of missed meals and fat-laden fast food binges. Fruit, yogurt and bagels can be purchased quickly nearly everywhere. Make sleep a priority Chances are, your personal time is very limited. Prioritize your need for sleep and recognize sleep for the valuable rejuvenation that it provides. Take a walk While you might not have time for a workout, you can emphasize walking in your daily schedule. Just 10-15 minutes can help clear your head and improve your mood. Spend time with supportive friends Let someone nurture you for a while. It is important that you connect with others in your life, see a movie, go to the beach, and have some fun. Schedule medical and dental appointments Regular checkups and health screenings are an absolute must for those with stressful lives. Make appointments well in advance and mark them on your calendar so you will be able to schedule around these appointments. Educate yourself Knowing what to expect when caring for a person with dementia can sometimes ease the challenges of your daily routine. Attend support groups Find a local support group and meet others who are caring for someone with Alzheimer's or a related dementia. For support or to find out more about services that may be available in your community, contact your local Alzheimer's Day Care and Resource Center at 444-8254, ext. 206 or 207. Jamie Kerr is Alzheimer's Education Specialist with the Alzheimer's Resource Center, a program of the Humboldt Senior Resource Center. |
Senior News